By Emeka Samuel, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a middle-aged man, Precious Joseph, for impersonating a police inspector in what authorities described as a significant operational success in their fight against criminality.
According to a statement by Police Public Relations Officer Timfon John, Joseph, who claimed to be from Nembe Local Council in Bayelsa State, was intercepted during a routine stop-and-search operation while riding a motorcycle without a registration number along Atiku Abubakar Way, Uyo.
When questioned, Joseph presented a police warrant card bearing the name Inspector Daniel. His suspicious conduct prompted a thorough search, which led to the recovery of another identity card belonging to the Nigerian Correctional Service, raising further doubts about his true identity.
A follow-up search at his residence in Ikot Ekoene uncovered several items, including a police beret, insignia, inspector rank badges, PMF uniforms, military camouflage, a lawyer’s wig, desert boots, and other security-related accoutrements suspected to have been used for impersonation and unlawful activities.
Police confirmed that Joseph is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation to determine the source of the recovered items, the extent of his activities, and whether he has accomplices or links to other crimes.
The Commissioner of Police reassured residents of the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks, particularly individuals exploiting the identities of security agencies to deceive the public or tarnish the image of national institutions.
The command also warned against the unlawful purchase, possession, or wearing of security uniforms, insignia, or identity cards, stressing that such acts constitute criminal offences and will attract the full weight of the law.
