A 35-year-old man, Temigbe Adeola, has been arrested in Akure, Ondo State, for allegedly impersonating a serving Nigerian Army officer and defrauding a family of N1.2 million, representing part of the retirement benefits of the victim’s mother.

The arrest followed credible intelligence that Adeola had fraudulently obtained the funds from Mr. Temiloluwa, according to a statement on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade.

Police said the N1.2 million was originally invested by the family in property. Investigations revealed that the victim’s son had sought Adeola’s help, believing him to be a serving military officer.

“Exploiting the trust placed in him, the suspect, along with accomplices who are currently at large, deceitfully obtained the money and converted it for personal use,” Ayanlade said.

Upon interrogation, Adeola reportedly confessed and admitted that he was dismissed from the Nigerian Army in 2023 after serving with the 82 Battalion in Enugu. His impersonation and ties to other fugitives remain under investigation.

Adeola is currently in police custody and will be charged to court once investigations are concluded. Efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining accomplices.

“The Ondo State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property. Residents are urged to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station,” Ayanlade added. “Under the strategic guidance of the Inspector-General of Police, the command continues to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.”