Rita Enemuru, Reporting
THE Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested two suspected impostors in separate operations, as part of an intensified crackdown on fraud and impersonation across the state.
The arrests, carried out under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, followed enhanced surveillance and enforcement efforts aimed at curbing criminal activities.
Dismissed Soldier Held Over Alleged ₦200,000 POS Fraud
On 13 February 2026 at about 3:00pm, operatives attached to the Ekeki Division apprehended 25-year-old Kelechi Lazarus at Ekeki Park in Yenagoa. The suspect was dressed in military camouflage bearing the rank of corporal.
Police said Lazarus allegedly attempted to fraudulently withdraw ₦200,000 from a Point of Sale (POS) operator by presenting what appeared to be a bank credit alert on his mobile phone as proof of payment.
However, the POS operator reportedly did not receive any corresponding notification and insisted on confirming the transaction at her bank. The bank later verified that no such payment had been made.
According to police sources, the suspect initially persuaded the victim to accompany him to his bank for clarification but later suggested they proceed to his “base” at the 16 Brigade instead. Sensing foul play, the operator declined. The suspect allegedly assaulted her, causing injuries.
The victim alerted the police control room, prompting officers from the Ekeki Division to swiftly arrest the suspect.
A search conducted on him reportedly led to the recovery of illicit substances.
Further investigations revealed that Lazarus had allegedly used similar tactics to defraud victims in other states. Upon verification with military authorities at the 16 Brigade, he was confirmed to be a dismissed soldier formerly attached to the 82 Division in Enugu, discharged in 2024.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation. Police say he will be charged to court upon conclusion of inquiries.
In a related development, troops of the 16 Brigade on 16 February 2026
