The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested a fake Nigerian Army Major, Austin Anthony, who lead a specialiced car syndicate operating in Nigeria and neighboring countries.
Anthony, 44, resident of Delta state was intercepted driving a stolen car at a police checkpoint on December 5 2024, along Bodinga road in Sokoto state.
Addressing a press conference, the Police Commissioner, Ahmad Musa, disclosed that Anthony named other accomplices which led to the arrest of a gang member, Mansur Abubakar, 32, at Gidan Dare area in Sokoto metropolis.
Speaking through the command’s spokesperson, Mr. Ahmad Rufa’i, Musa said the suspect introduced himself to the police officer as a military personnel in order to get away with the said vehicle.
He said during investigation, the suspect confessed to the crime, two additional vehicles were recovered from him and one other suspect Abubakar.
According to him, further investigation led police to recover other items from the suspects that comprised; complete set of Army Uniform with the rank of Major which he has been using to avert security personnel attention.
Others items included fabricated master keys, five bunches of motor vehicle keys, Nigerian Army Identity card with rank of Major and three sets of motor vehicle plate numbers.
Ahmed Musa mentioned that other items recovered were banner of Nigerian Army, two Army Stamps, three sets of Shoulder badges belonging to the Nigerian Army.
He added that Anthony was on trial on the similar offence arrested by Policemen in possession of three stolen vehicles and was arraigned in court on August 28, this year and was granted bail.
He said the suspect demostrated that he was an unrepentant criminal as he is presently on court bail adding that the suspects would soon be charged to court after investigation.
The Commissioner has reaffirmed the commitment of the Police to apprehend all the fleeing suspects.
He assured the public that the Police will continue in it’s efforts to dismantle criminal gangs, particularly those involved in violent crimes.
He stressed that the command would maintain its aggressive stance against criminals and also ensure the safety and security of the good people of the state.
The Commissioner commended the harmonious relationship with the public and urged them to support the Police with useful information on suspecious movements, remain vigilant, law-abiding and continue to support the police in maintaining peace at all times.
Comments are closed.