A suspect was detained by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Anambra state command for allegedly committing fraud and posing as a member of the Nigerian Navy.
On Tuesday, August 8, NSCDC agents arrested the suspect, Chukwugozirim Christian, 39, of Nnobi in the Idemili north local government area of Anambra state, near Kwata Junction in Awka. The arrest happened during a regular visibility patrol.
While his accomplices are still at large and being sought by law enforcement, Maku Olatunde, the State NSCDC Commandant, commended his staff for their professionalism and diligence in apprehending the suspect.
According to preliminary findings, Chukwugozirim Christian has been engaging in a number of illicit actions while pretending to be a naval commander and tricking innocent bystanders.
He said: “On Tuesday, August 6th, 2024, our personnel were on patrol to enforce the directive issued by the Commandant General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, to prevent undesirable elements and undemocratic forces from causing chaos and disrupting the peace among law-abiding residents of the state, particularly during the #EndBadGovernance Nationwide Protest.
“The suspect was observed exhibiting an unusual appearance while impersonating military personnel, and his dubious behaviour caught the attention of our operatives, who promptly pursued and apprehended him, subsequently bringing him in for questioning at our office.
“Upon questioning, the suspect alleged to be a naval rating, prompting the command to contact the Naval Base in Onitsha for verification.
“However, the Naval authorities confirmed that he was an impersonator, with no affiliation to the Nigerian Navy.
“A search of the suspect’s residence yielded a trove of incriminating evidence, including various military gear like a walkie-talkie, a black beret and belt, a complete blue combat uniform, a lanyard, a camouflage top, a matchet, a white naval shirt, and a blue belt.”
According to Maku, the parading of the fictitious naval rating demonstrated the NSCDC’s unwavering efforts to apprehend criminals in Anambra state who are hiding behind security officers.
“The Corps remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the citizens of Anambra State from impostors and criminals, and we will continue to take decisive action against those who threaten the security and well-being of Anambra residents,” he stated.
The suspect will face charges in court after the inquiry is over, according to the NSCDC State Commandant, who has given the Intelligence and inquiry Department comprehensive instructions to find and apprehend the suspect’s accomplices, who are presently at large.
In order to battle crime and criminality in the state, the Commandant gave the public the assurance that the NSCDC, led by him, would not spare any effort.
He asked the public to maintain their vigilance and to offer prompt, correct information in order to support the capture and punishment of criminal elements.
