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Troops arrest fake military impostors accused of extorting miners in Nasarawa 

By: Zagazola Makama 

Troops of Sector 2, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), have arrested two suspected criminals, including a dismissed Ordinary Seaman, for allegedly impersonating security personnel and extorting local miners in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspects were apprehended at about 8:00 p.m. on July 18 during a night patrol by troops deployed in Lafia.

The sources said the troops intercepted the suspects at Anguwan Kwano in the Kure area of Kokona LGA following intelligence on their activities.

Preliminary investigation indicated that one of the suspects is a former Ordinary Seaman, who, alongside a civilian accomplice, allegedly posed as serving security personnel to extort money from miners operating in the area.

Items recovered from the suspects included one locally made pistol, two rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, ₦42,000 in cash believed to be proceeds of the alleged extortion, and other sundry items.

The suspects are currently in custody for further investigation, while military authorities said the operation underscores ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities and protect communities from individuals impersonating security personnel.