Nigerian Navy Nabs Impersonator, Alleged Robber in Anambra Operations

Security forces in Anambra State have confirmed the arrest of two individuals, one suspected of impersonating a naval officer and another linked to an armed robbery incident. These arrests were made during distinct security operations carried out at a checkpoint located in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.

Commander Kabir Yusuf, who serves as the Commanding Officer for the Onitsha Naval Outpost, revealed these details in a statement released on Wednesday. He identified the apprehended individuals as Brooms Anthony, a 37-year-old from Uyo LGA, Akwa Ibom State, and Christian Ogbole, 36, from Onoh Village, Eziagu LGA, Enugu State. Both suspects were taken into custody over the past weekend and subsequently transferred to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu for further investigation.

According to Commander Yusuf, Anthony was intercepted around 2 AM while traveling from Lagos to Enugu in a Nissan Atlas truck, bearing registration number EPE 288 YM. The vehicle was transporting various household goods when naval personnel conducting a routine security check discovered an identity card purporting Anthony to be a naval officer. Upon interrogation, the suspect failed to provide credible evidence to substantiate his claim of being a member of the Nigerian Navy, leading to his arrest for alleged impersonation.

In a separate operation, naval personnel apprehended Ogbole after intercepting a Suzuki minibus, with registration number RNN 573 XA, which was reportedly being used to convey stolen items. This intervention followed a formal complaint from a local trader whose shop had recently been burgled, with numerous valuable goods reported missing. The minibus was later spotted approaching the Awkuzu checkpoint at high speed and allegedly failed to comply with signals to stop from security operatives. Naval personnel pursued and successfully intercepted the vehicle, resulting in Ogbole’s arrest, while other occupants of the bus reportedly managed to escape.

Items recovered from the minibus included six solar batteries, one rechargeable solar fan, two solar lights, a controller, a disco light, and solar cable wires. The naval commander confirmed that the recovered solar equipment was later positively identified by the trader and returned to him. Additional items found during the operation comprised two pry bars, three mobile phones, four car keys, 10 litres of petrol, assorted rubber slippers, and a power bank.

Commander Yusuf emphasized that these operations are part of the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing commitment, in collaboration with other security agencies, to combat criminal activities and ensure the safety and protection of lives and property across Anambra State. He stated, “The arrests reflected the commitment of security agencies to deny criminals the freedom to operate. We assure residents that the Navy will continue working closely with the Police and other relevant agencies to strengthen security across the state.”