The Rivers State Police Command has apprehended Fred Monday, a 31-year-old who impersonated a police inspector while leading a notorious armed robbery syndicate operating across Rivers, Delta, Edo, and Akwa Ibom states.
The arrest, made on Thursday, has stunned the region, as details of Monday’s criminal activities come to light.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, disclosed that Monday’s capture was a result of an unexpected encounter during the arrest of five suspected cultists.
The police were astonished to find Monday fully dressed in police camouflage, wearing the rank of an Inspector of Police, and armed with an AK-47 rifle, ten magazines, and 29 rounds of live ammunition.
According to Commissioner Disu, Monday also bought police uniforms, magazines, ammunition, and hand grenades from the same source.
“Monday further confessed to using his fake identity to provide security cover for members of the Vikings Confraternity during their cult initiation ceremonies in Khana,” Disu said.
The arrest of Fred Monday has sent shockwaves through the region, as his syndicate’s reach and influence have left residents reeling. The police commissioner praised his team’s diligence in uncovering the fake inspector’s true identity, vowing to continue the fight against crime and impersonation.
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Upon interrogation, Monday, a native of Wiyakara Community in Khana Local Government Area, confessed to his deception.
He revealed that he had been impersonating a police officer and that he had acquired the rifle in 2021 for N850,000 from an accomplice known as Goodluck, also referred to as Boy-J. Monday also admitted to purchasing police uniforms, additional magazines, ammunition, and hand grenades from the same source.
Commissioner Disu further revealed that Monday had used his fake police identity to provide security cover for members of the Vikings Confraternity during their cult initiation ceremonies in Khana.
This revelation has caused widespread concern, as the syndicate’s operations extended far beyond the immediate area, impacting multiple states.
The arrest of Fred Monday marks a significant victory for the police, who have vowed to intensify their efforts against crime and impersonation. Commissioner Disu commended his team for their dedication in unmasking the fake inspector and emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in the police force.
“We will not tolerate individuals masquerading as police officers, using their fake status to perpetuate crime and undermine trust in our institution,” Disu stated firmly.