Navy Arrests 2 Suspects in Anambra Over Impersonation and Theft

(Nigerian Navy. Photo by AIT LIVE)

The Nigerian Navy has arrested two suspects during security operations at a checkpoint in Awkuzu, Anambra State.

The arrests were made over the weekend.

Commander Kabir Yusuf, the Commanding Officer of the Onitsha Naval Outpost, said the first suspect is 37-year-old Brooms Anthony from Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Brooms Anthony was stopped at about 2am while travelling from Lagos to Enugu in a truck carrying household items.

Naval personnel found an identity card allegedly showing he was a naval officer.

However, Brooms Anthony could not provide proof that he was actually a member of the Nigerian Navy, so he was arrested for impersonation.

The second suspect is 36-year-old Christian Ogbole from Onoh Village in Eziagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Christian Ogbole was arrested after naval personnel intercepted a minibus he was in that was allegedly carrying stolen property.

The operation followed a complaint from a trader whose shop had been burgled.

The minibus was speeding toward the checkpoint but failed to stop when signalled by security personnel.

Naval personnel pursued and intercepted the vehicle.

Other occupants escaped.

Items recovered from Christian Ogbole's vehicle included six solar batteries, a rechargeable solar fan, two solar lights, a controller, a disco light and solar cable wires.

The trader identified these items as his stolen property and they were returned to him.

Other items found included two pry bars, three mobile phones, four car keys, 10 litres of petrol, assorted rubber slippers and a power bank.

Both suspects have been handed over to the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu for further investigation.

Commander Kabir Yusuf said the operations are part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies to fight crime and protect lives and property in Anambra State.