Fake Soldier Arraigned

A suspected fake soldier has been arraigned in the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court on a one-count charge of impersonating the Nigerian Army. He was arrested by the police in Maroko Division, Lekki, Eti Osa, Lagos State, southwest Nigeria.

The police alleged that the accusd, Dave Samuel, 32, was arrested on 29 September, 2011 at an Indian hemp joint after he allegedly identified himself as a serving soldier, a claim he knew was false.

He was said to be wearing army camouflage, knickers and other army insignia when he allegedly insisted that he was a genuine serving soldier, the police arrested him and took him to the 81 Division, Dodan barracks for confirmation of his claim.

But the military authority allegedly told the police team that he is a fake soldier as they don’t have such a name on their enlistment.

He was taken back to the police station after investigation, he was charged to the court for impersonating the Nigerian Army. The offences, according to the prosecutor, Inspector Clifford Ogu, is punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code, laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2003.

The one count charge reads: “That you Dave Samuel on 29 September, 2011 at about 14:00hrs at New Market area of Maroko, Lekki, lagos, in the Lagos magisterial district did present yourself as a serving solider by wearing army camouflage, knickers, an act you knew was false.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge and the presiding magistrate, Mrs. Famobiwo, granted him bail in the sum N50,000 with one responsible surety in like sum and adjourned the matter till 2 November 2011.

The accused was remanded at Ikoyi prison when he could not meet his bail condition before the court closed for the day.

—Paul Iyoghojie