The Bauchi State Police Command has detained a 26‑year‑old individual accused of masquerading as a member of the Nigerian Army, assaulting a prospective employer and absconding with his vehicle, following an intelligence‑driven investigation that began after a complaint on 22 October 2026.
Key facts
- The suspect, identified as John Umar Shehu, is a resident of Bassa Local Government Area in Plateau State.
- He allegedly contacted the factory owner on 18 October, claiming to seek a driver’s position at a pure‑water plant.
- During a driving assessment on 22 October, he reportedly attacked the owner and the neighbour’s son before fleeing in the employer’s white H‑Jet car (registration AE‑278‑ALK).
- Police recovered the stolen vehicle in Jos, Plateau State, along with a green Infinix Smart 5X phone.
- A search of the suspect uncovered multiple army uniforms and accessories, including desert and green camouflage outfits, a jungle hat, raincoat, vest and sweater.
What prompted the police action?
The arrest followed a petition filed on 22 October 2026 by Salisu, a resident of the Gida Dubu area of Bauchi, who reported that the man had presented himself as Private Umar Shehu with service number NA/22/82/1064, claiming attachment to the 7 Division, Maimalari Barracks, 134 Special Forces Battalion, Borno State.
How was the stolen vehicle retrieved?
Detectives from the command tracked the white H‑Jet to Jos, where they located the car and the suspect’s mobile phone. The recovery was part of a broader intelligence‑led operation that also led to the seizure of the army‑style attire.
What items linked the suspect to the army?
A thorough search revealed a collection of military‑grade clothing and gear: desert‑pattern camouflage, green camouflage, a jungle‑style hat, an army raincoat, a camouflage vest and an army sweater. These items were used by the suspect to convince the employer of his alleged military status.
Official response
CP Sani‑Omolori Aliyu, the Commissioner of Police, condemned the fraudulent use of security‑agency identities, stating that the force will not tolerate such deception. He assured the public that the suspect will face full investigation and prosecution, and urged citizens to verify the credentials of anyone claiming to be a security officer, especially when offering employment in sensitive roles. The commissioner also called on residents to report suspicious activities promptly, emphasizing the police command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.