…AS GOC WARNS AGAINST USING MILITARY UNIFORMS FOR ILLEGALITIES
Five dismissed soldiers and four others have been arrested and paraded for masquerading as soldiers of the Nigerian Army, Headquarters, 81 Division, Nigerian Army (NA) revealed on Wednesday.
They were said to be using the military uniform to engage in unholy acts including criminal activities that disrupt the peace and security enjoyed in Lagos State and its environs.
Parading the suspects before newsmen at the 81 Division, Kofo Abayomi, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Mohammed Takuti Usman disclosed that the suspects were arrested for various offenses, including illegal duties, providing illegal security, and illegal escort services while donning military uniforms.
The GOC who was represented by the Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni gave the names of the impostors as Mr Abua Jacob, Mr. Solomon Abraham, Mr. Mohammed Jemilu, Mr. Michael Omieh, Mr. Dauda Samuel, Mr. Bida Musa, Miss Esther Audu, and Miss Vivian Titus.
It was learnt that their actions have not only compromised the safety of civilians but also tarnished the esteemed image of the Nigerian Army.
Giving details of how they were arrested, it was disclosed that Mr. Abua Jacob, a dismissed soldier, was apprehended on February 7, 2024, at Alaba International Market, Ojo Lagos, for impersonation. Mr. Solomon Abraham, Mr. Michael Omieh, Mr. Mohammed Jemilu, and Mr. Dauda Samuel, all dismissed soldiers, were also arrested in separate incidents for similar offences.
In addition, Miss Esther Audu and Miss Vivian Titus were arrested for impersonation during operations along various routes in Lagos.
The General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA, Major General Mohammed Takuti Usman, has urged law-abiding citizens in Lagos and Ogun States to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
He reassured the public that concerted efforts, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue to ensure that such criminal elements are denied a comfort zone within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
The suspects will be handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and prosecution following the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of citizens within its jurisdiction and will continue to take decisive action against individuals impersonating service personnel and other criminal elements.
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