Operatives of the Lagos State Task Force have arrested three individuals for allegedly impersonating officers of the Nigerian Navy. The suspects were apprehended for defrauding members of the public and attempting to obstruct lawful government operations.
The Sting Operation at Task Force Headquarters
The agency's spokesperson, Raheem Gbadeyan, disclosed that the arrests were made by the task force chairman, Adetayo Akerele. The incident stemmed from the recent demolition of illegal shanties and structures encroaching on government land in the Oworonshoki area of Lagos State.
Gbadeyan identified the principal suspect as James K. Robert, whose name was obtained from the visitor's register and a tag on his uniform. The suspect had visited the task force office to demand the release of vehicles removed from the demolition site.
Unraveling the Deception
According to the statement, the suspect had ignored several statutory notices and appeals to evacuate his property from the site ahead of the planned demolition. Accompanied by his wife and a man posing as his orderly, Robert claimed ownership of a car lot at the location and demanded special treatment in the 'spirit of esprit de corps.'
When Chairman Akerele refused to compromise professional ethics, the fake naval captain reportedly became aggressive. He issued threats of a confrontation between his purported men and task force operatives.
Suspicions were raised during a detailed interview when Akerele questioned Robert about his primary military assignment and command. A closer inspection revealed several glaring inconsistencies:
- Incorrectly worn service ribbons.
- Absence of required regimental insignia.
- An overall shabby appearance unbecoming of a senior naval officer.
Swift Action and Confession
Akerele immediately contacted the Naval Police unit of the Nigerian Navy, which confirmed that James Robert was not a serving officer. This confirmation led to the prompt arrest of the suspect and his accomplices.
The chairman noted that his suspicions deepened when the alleged orderly and other accomplices tactically withdrew from the scene shortly before the arrest.
In a revealing twist, the suspect's wife admitted during questioning that she had repeatedly warned her husband to stop impersonating military personnel. She was quoted as saying, "several days are for the thief, but one day is for the owner."
"Before the suspects could fully comprehend what was happening, officers of the Nigerian Navy Military Police were already on the ground and took them into custody. They are currently undergoing further investigation," Akerele stated.
The arrests occurred on January 16, 2026, highlighting the ongoing efforts by Lagos authorities to curb impersonation and fraud.
