By MUFTAU OGUNYEMI

The Police Command in Ondo State says it has arrested a 35-year-old man, Temigbe Adeola, who allegedly, falsely paraded himself as a serving personnel of the Nigerian Army.

The command also said Adeola allegedly defrauded a family of N1.2 million retirement benefits.

DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the command’s Spokesperson, made this known in a statement on Thursday in Akure.

Ayanlade, who explained that the arrest was based on credible intelligence and in line with proactive policing directives, said the suspect fraudulently obtained the funds from one Mr Temiloluwa.

According to him, the funds represent the hard-earned retirement benefits of the victim’s mother, which had been invested in properties.

He said investigations further revealed that the victim’s son had engaged the suspect to assist in retrieving the retirement benefits.

“Exploiting this trust, the suspect, together with accomplices who are still at large, deceitfully collected the funds and converted the entire amount to their personal use.

“This development highlights the need for continuous vigilance and the proactive role of the police in safeguarding citizens’ hard-earned resources.

“Upon arrest, the suspect confessed to the fraudulent act and disclosed that he had been discharged from the Nigerian Army since 2023, having served at 82 Battalion, Enugu.

“His impersonation and the involvement of other accomplices are subjects of an ongoing, thorough, and professional investigation, emphasising the command’s dedication to accountability and justice,” Ayanlade said.

The spokesperson, therefore, said that the suspect was currently in lawful custody and would be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation.

He also said efforts to apprehend the remaining accomplices were ongoing, which reflected the command’s resolve to ensure that all parties involved in criminal activities were brought to justice.

“The Police Command in Ondo State remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting lives and property.

“Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police formation.

“Guided by the strategic direction of the Inspector-General of Police, the command will continue to strengthen intelligence-led operations and uphold the highest standards of professionalism in policing,” he said. (NAN)