Fake Army Major, car theft kingpin nabbed by Sokoto Police

The Sokoto State Police Command has arrested a 44-year-old man, Austin Anthony, who posed as a Nigerian Army Major to allegedly lead a cross-border car theft syndicate.

Anthony, a resident of Delta State, was intercepted on December 5 while driving a stolen car at a police checkpoint along Bodinga Road, Sokoto State.

Addressing a press conference on Thursday, the Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Musa, disclosed that Anthony’s arrest led to the capture of an accomplice, Mansur Abubakar, 32, at Gidan Dare in Sokoto metropolis.

Speaking through the command’s spokesperson, Ahmad Rufa’i, Musa revealed that Anthony had initially identified himself as military personnel in a bid to evade capture.

During the investigation, Anthony reportedly confessed to the crime, leading to the recovery of three stolen vehicles—two in his possession and one from Abubakar. Additional items recovered from Anthony included a set of army uniforms with the rank of Major, fabricated master keys, five bunches of car keys, a fake Nigerian Army identity card, and three sets of vehicle license plates.

Other recovered items included a banner of the Nigerian Army, two Army stamps, and three sets of shoulder badges, all used to impersonate military personnel and evade security scrutiny.

The Police Commissioner also revealed that Anthony was already on trial for a similar offense after being arrested on August 28 in possession of three stolen vehicles. He had been granted bail but continued his criminal activities.

Musa condemned Anthony’s unrepentant behavior and vowed to apprehend all fleeing members of the syndicate. He assured the public that the suspects would face justice after investigations are concluded.

“The Sokoto State Police Command remains committed to dismantling criminal gangs, especially those involved in violent crimes. We will continue to ensure the safety and security of our communities,” the commissioner said.