A soldier who claimed involvement in the Osisikankwu operation has been arrested over a major fraud allegation. Click the link below to read the full story.
A major controversy has emerged after the Nigerian Army arrested a serving soldier, Amoke Simon, over alleged fraud amounting to N114 million and false claims that he was part of the operation that killed notorious Abia kidnap kingpin, Obioma Nwankwo, popularly known as Osisikankwu.
The development is attracting attention because the soldier was recently hosted and recognized by the Abia State Government after he claimed he participated in the military operation that eliminated the notorious kidnap kingpin in 2010.
However, military investigations have now reportedly revealed that the soldier had no role in the operation and allegedly used the claim to deceive government officials and members of the public.
According to military sources, the suspect, who is a member of the Nigerian Army Engineers Corps attached to a regiment in Lagos, was arrested at the Port Harcourt International Airport while allegedly attempting to travel to Abuja.
He was reportedly arrested by joint troops of the 14 Brigade and 6 Division Provost Groups following ongoing investigations into allegations of fraud, impersonation, and false military claims.
Investigators said the soldier had been on the radar of authorities over multiple fraud allegations before his arrest.
The controversy surrounding the soldier became more serious after investigators discovered that he allegedly falsely presented himself as one of the key soldiers involved in the 2010 operation that led to the killing of Osisikankwu, who was one of the most feared kidnappers in Abia State at the time.
The claim reportedly earned him recognition and support, including promises of assistance after he allegedly told authorities he was injured during military operations.
However, military records reportedly showed that he was not part of the operation and was never deployed to Maiduguri or the North-East, contrary to his claims that he was injured while fighting Boko Haram.
Military sources said he fabricated a military operational history to gain sympathy, financial support, and recognition.
Investigations also revealed that the soldier was allegedly involved in multiple fraudulent activities involving individuals and organisations.
According to investigators, the alleged fraud includes:
- About N100 million allegedly obtained from a company
- About N6 million allegedly obtained from an individual
- About N8 million allegedly obtained from a group of persons
Authorities said he allegedly intensified his fraudulent activities after a motorcycle accident in Lagos, which he reportedly used as a story to solicit financial assistance from people and organisations.
Military authorities say his actions not only amount to fraud but also undermine the sacrifices of soldiers who actually participated in dangerous military operations.
He is expected to be transferred to Lagos for further investigation and disciplinary procedures.
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