Naval Outpost Onitsha Arrests Suspected Naval Impersonator, Alleged Armed Robber in Awkuzu
By Emmanuel Chigbata
The Nigerian Navy, through its Naval Outpost in Onitsha, has arrested two suspects, including an alleged naval impersonator and a suspected armed robber, during separate operations at the Awkuzu Checkpoint in Anambra State.
The suspects, arrested on September 5, 2026, have been handed over to the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, Awkuzu, alongside a vehicle and other exhibits recovered during the operations for further investigation.
One of the suspects, 37 year old Brooms Anthony from Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, was arrested for allegedly impersonating a naval personnel and possessing a fake identity card.
The Commanding Officer, Naval Outpost Onitsha, Commander Kabir Yusuf, said Anthony was intercepted at about 2am while travelling from Lagos to Enugu in a Nissan Atlas truck loaded with household items.
In a separate operation, 36 year old Christian Ogbole from Onoh Village in Eziagu Local Government Area of Enugu State was arrested over an alleged armed robbery.
Commander Yusuf said the operation followed a report by a trader whose shop was allegedly burgled and several items stolen.
He explained that operatives sighted a Suzuki Mini Bus allegedly approaching the Awkuzu Checkpoint at high speed. The driver reportedly failed to stop when ordered, prompting the operatives to give chase before eventually intercepting the vehicle and arresting Ogbole.
Other suspects reportedly escaped and remain at large.
Recovered from the vehicle were six solar batteries, a rechargeable solar fan, two solar lights, a controller, a disco light and solar cable wires. The items have since been returned to their owner.
Other exhibits recovered included two pry bars, three mobile phones, four car keys, 10 litres of petrol, assorted rubber slippers and a power bank.
Commander Yusuf said the operations demonstrated the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to supporting other security agencies in tackling criminal activities and protecting lives and property.
He assured residents that the Navy would continue to collaborate with the Police and other security agencies to deny criminals safe operating spaces across the state.
The two suspects, the Suzuki Mini Bus and other exhibits have been handed over to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, for further investigation and necessary action, while efforts continue to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
