A man, Falade, who posed as a retired US Navy captain, was arrested in Ondo after causing unrest in Idogun community. His actions led to riots
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Ondo State Police Command has arrested a man identified only as Falade for allegedly impersonating a retired United States military officer.
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The suspect, who claimed to be a former US Navy Captain, was found to have fabricated his military background. Falade is also accused of instigating unrest in the Idogun community in the Ose Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking with journalists in Akure, Ondo’s state capital, the Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr. Wilfred Afolabi, provided details on the arrest.
He confirmed that the suspect had been apprehended and subsequently charged in court. Following his prosecution, Falade was remanded in a correctional centre in Akure, where he awaits further legal proceedings.
According to CP Afolabi, Falade had been a source of terror in the Idogun community for years. The suspect had claimed to be a retired Navy Captain who had served in the American military.
His alleged role in the community, however, was far from commendable. The police investigation revealed that Falade, alongside a group of followers, had been involved in several criminal activities, including intimidation and violence.
The situation escalated when the police attempted to resolve the issue peacefully. CP Afolabi recalled calling Falade in an attempt to address the matter.
Despite the invitation to give his side of the story, Falade responded with abusive language.
Efforts to further de-escalate tensions by inviting him to a peace meeting with community leaders and local officials were unsuccessful. Instead of calming the situation, Falade’s actions appeared to worsen it.
Further investigation revealed that Falade was carrying fake identification documents, including a fraudulent passport and military credentials, which he used to further his criminal activities.
In a particularly disturbing incident, Falade and his supporters were implicated in the abduction of individuals heading to their farms.
These victims were reportedly robbed of their belongings and held captive by Falade’s group.
After Falade’s arrest, tensions in the community reached a boiling point. Supporters of the suspect staged violent protests, including setting bonfires and blocking roads with large trees.
The police swiftly responded to restore order, deploying additional officers to the area. Despite their efforts, a confrontation between the police and protesters led to one officer being injured by a machete attack.
The unrest prompted the deployment of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team to secure the situation. CP Afolabi noted that the police had to take firm action to control the violence and bring peace to the region.
He reiterated the importance of resolving disputes through legal and peaceful means, rather than resorting to violence or illegal activities.
Falade’s arrest has shed light on a disturbing case of impersonation and criminal activity in Ondo State.
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While the police continue to investigate the full extent of his actions, the unrest sparked by his followers serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who misuse authority and engage in criminal behaviour.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
