Fake Soldier Apprehended for Extensive Fraud in Lagos Markets
By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa
A 27-year-old impostor, Kolawole Yusuf, was arrested for defrauding Lagos residents while impersonating a Nigerian Air Force officer.
He was handed over to the police by the NAFRC in Oshodi after being rescued from an angry mob at Ladipo Market.
Yusuf used “fake alerts” to steal goods and cash from vendors and POS operators across multiple major markets.
Notable thefts included a ₦300,000 television and vehicle parts worth ₦145,000, which he obtained by deceiving traders into believing payments were successful.
Commander Patricia Ochei stated, “It was discovered that he has been on the wanted list of the police and the NAF for several fraud cases.” The military intervened following reports of a “personnel” harassing civilians and committing financial crimes.
Yusuf confessed to buying the uniform for ₦30,000 to protect his commercial motorcycle from law enforcement. He eventually joined a syndicate of impostors, using the disguise to commit more serious crimes across the state.
Victims recounted how Yusuf would blame “network issues” for missing payment alerts before disappearing.
Although he claimed to be repaying his victims, those present refuted this, stating he only offered refunds under duress after being caught.
The military has urged other victims to come forward as Yusuf returns to police custody for prosecution. Authorities hope this case serves as a deterrent against the impersonation of armed forces personnel for criminal purposes.
