**Operation Dismantle: Crackdown on Fake Military Officer and His Car Theft Gang**
The Sokoto State Police Command recently busted an impostor posing as a Major in the Nigerian Army. The man, Austin Anthony, aged 44 and originally from Delta State, was apprehended while driving a stolen car at a police checkpoint on December 5, along Bodinga road, Sokoto State. The arrest exposed the existence of a car theft syndicate operating in Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
At a press conference hosted by Police Commissioner Ahmad Musa, it was revealed that Anthony had brought other accomplices in his wake, leading to the arrest of a gang member, Mansur Abubakar, aged 32, in Gidan Dare area of Sokoto. The suspect had introduced himself to the police as a military man in an attempt to evade suspicions related to the stolen vehicle he was driving.
Investigations enabled the police to lay their hands on two other stolen vehicles in Anthony’s possession, as well as another vehicle in Abubakar’s possession. These findings revealed that the fake Major was using army uniforms with the rank of Major to avoid attracting the attention of the security forces. In addition, a set of fabricated car keys, five sets of vehicle keys, a Nigerian Army Identity Card with the rank of Major, as well as three sets of number plates were seized.
The Commissioner of Police noted that the arrest was not the first for Anthony, who had been arrested earlier on similar charges and had been released on bail. It emerged that the suspect had continued his criminal activities despite being arraigned in court.
The Police assured the public of its determination to track down all suspects on the run and prosecute gangsters involved in acts of violence. It also promised to maintain an aggressive posture against crime, thereby ensuring the safety of the people of Sokoto State.
The operation highlighted the critical importance of vigilance and coordination among law enforcement agencies in combating organized crimes and preventing future crimes. The arrest of the fake Major and his accomplices has sent a clear message to criminals that the law will always catch up with them, no matter what disguise they wear. The public can feel reassured knowing that the Police are vigilant and remain committed to protecting the community against any form of threat.