A 35-year-old man, Temigbe Adeola, has been arrested in Akure, the Ondo State capital, for allegedly impersonating a serving officer of the Nigerian Army and defrauding a family of N1.2 million, money belonging to the retirement benefits of the victim’s mother.
Adeola’s arrest followed credible intelligence that he had fraudulently obtained the funds from one Mr Temiloluwa.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday in Akure by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade.
According to the police, the N1.2 million represented part of the victim’s mother’s retirement benefits, which the family had invested in property.
Further investigations revealed that the victim’s son had approached Adeola for assistance in retrieving the funds, believing him to be a serving military officer.
“Exploiting the trust placed in him, the suspect, along with accomplices who are currently at large, deceitfully obtained the money and converted it to their own use,” Ayanlade said.
He added that the case showcases the importance of public vigilance and highlights the proactive steps taken by the police to safeguard citizens’ hard-earned resources.
Upon interrogation, Adeola reportedly confessed to the crime and admitted that he had been dismissed from the Nigerian Army in 2023 after serving with the 82 Battalion in Enugu.
His impersonation and involvement with other fugitives remain subjects of ongoing, professional investigation.
The police spokesperson confirmed that Adeola is currently in lawful custody and will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
He also noted that efforts are underway to track down the remaining accomplices, reaffirming the command’s commitment to ensuring that all individuals connected to the crime are brought to justice.
“The Ondo State Police Command remains steadfast in its mandate to protect lives and property. We urge residents to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour or individuals to the nearest police station.
“Under the strategic guidance of the Inspector-General of Police, the command will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and uphold the highest standards of professionalism,” Ayanlade added.
