Troops Arrest 14 Suspected Impostors, Recover Ammunition and Weapons in Abuja
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested 14 suspected criminals who allegedly posed as operatives of the Nigeria Forest Guard while carrying out unauthorised arrests in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Military sources disclosed that the suspects were apprehended at about 5:20 p.m. on June 5 by troops of the 7 Guards Battalion during a routine patrol in the Mpape area of Bwari Area Council, Abuja.
According to the sources, the troops encountered the group while they were allegedly conducting illegal arrest operations and claiming to be personnel of the Nigeria Forest Guard.
The suspicious activities of the group prompted the troops to intervene and subject the suspects to preliminary questioning and searches.
During the operation, security personnel recovered one round of 9mm ammunition and other weapons from the suspects.
Military authorities said the circumstances surrounding the possession of the ammunition and weapons, as well as the group’s claims of affiliation with the Nigeria Forest Guard, are currently under investigation.
The 14 suspects have since been taken into military custody pending further interrogation and necessary legal procedures.
Security agencies have warned members of the public to be cautious of individuals impersonating security personnel and to verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent a government security organisation.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security within the Federal Capital Territory and ensuring that individuals involved in criminal activities or unlawful impersonation of security agencies are brought to justice.
