Detectives at Zone 2 Police Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos, have detained a middle-aged man posing as a senior police officer after he attempted to secure the release of two suspected international fraudsters in custody.
The suspects were arrested in the Lekki area of Lagos with forged certificates from a Ghanaian university. They are also accused of being involved in large-scale internet fraud targeting foreign victims, amassing significant wealth through illicit means.
The Deceptive Bail Attempt
Police sources revealed that after the fraudsters’ arrest and failed attempt to bribe detectives with ₦66 million, the man arrived at the anti-corruption unit with a lawyer. Claiming to be a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) serving in Edo State, he requested bail for the suspects, assuring officers he would ensure their availability for further investigations.
However, suspicions arose when he presented a police warrant card. Upon closer examination, detectives noticed discrepancies:
His photograph, featuring a bearded man, was labeled as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), but the rank listed was DSP.
The back of the card bore an unclear signature with the abbreviation “DCD” dated May 13, 2024, instead of the Inspector General of Police’s signature.
The Confession
Confronted with the inconsistencies, the man admitted to forging the warrant card. He confessed:
He is a police inspector serving with the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Edo State.
He forged the card in a car park, attaching his passport photo and signing it himself.
He traveled to Lagos without informing his superiors, intending to aid his friends—the detained fraudsters.
He further revealed that he joined the police force in 2014 as an ICT specialist with a diploma in Computer Science, later undergoing conversion training in Jos.
Fraudsters Under Investigation
The arrested fraudsters are alleged to operate over 100 bank accounts across various countries, with multiple eminent personalities reportedly making calls to secure their release. Police sources disclosed that these individuals fabricated stories to exonerate the suspects and discredit the investigation.
Despite external pressures, the command remains resolute, confirming plans to charge the fraudsters and their accomplice to court. Investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the fake officer’s involvement and his relationship with the suspects.
Peoplesmind
