Fake Air Force Officer Arrest in Ibadan after police detained a suspect accused of posing as a military officer to defraud a POS operator
Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command have arrested Yusuf Abdullahi, a suspected impostor accused of posing as a Nigerian Air Force officer to allegedly defraud a Point of Sale operator of N150,000 in Ibadan.
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Fake Air Force Officer Arrest followed a complaint lodged by Mrs Ayedun Abisola Adedoyin, a POS operator resident in the Oke-Padre area of the city, who reported that the suspect had allegedly deceived her by claiming to be a serving sergeant in the Nigerian Air Force.
According to police sources, the incident occurred on June 1 at Ogunpa Market, where Abdullahi allegedly purchased several items, including a cooking gas regulator and air freshener, before approaching the complainant for a cash transaction.
Investigators said the suspect reportedly convinced the POS operator to hand over N150,000 in cash on the assurance that he would complete an electronic transfer covering both the cash and the goods purchased.
However, the transfer was never made, and the suspect allegedly disappeared after collecting the money and items.
Police operatives subsequently tracked and arrested Abdullahi on June 9 at the Iwo Road area of Ibadan while he was reportedly dressed in military camouflage.
The Fake Air Force Officer Arrest uncovered further details during investigations, with police sources revealing that the suspect had allegedly been arrested previously over a similar offence before being handed over to the Nigerian Air Force Base in Akobo for disciplinary action.
In a significant development, detectives contacted Flight Lieutenant Amuda of the Nigerian Air Force, who reportedly confirmed that Abdullahi is not a serving member of the military.
Authorities said investigations remain ongoing to determine the full extent of the suspect’s alleged activities and identify any additional victims who may have fallen prey to the scheme.
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The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and verify the identity of individuals claiming to be security personnel before entering into financial transactions.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
