The Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) has apprehended a 22-year-old man impersonating a soldier and a police constabulary officer for alleged illegal possession of firearms. The arrests highlight ongoing efforts to bolster internal security and combat criminal activities within the state.
Peter Ehiotu, the suspected fake soldier, who hails from Benue State, was taken into custody while wearing a Nigerian Army uniform. Nelson Agbonze, the police constable, was arrested separately while in possession of a firearm.
Richard Balogun, the Deputy Commander of the ESSC in charge of operations, confirmed the arrests and indicated that the two suspects are also being investigated for potential involvement in kidnapping activities. Ehiotu was apprehended in an uncompleted building along the Oluku Bypass axis by operatives from the Oluku Sector Command. Authorities recovered an army jacket and a substance believed to be methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice,” from his possession.
Agbonze was arrested on February 10, 2026, along Amufi Road in Benin City. According to Balogun, the police constable, who is not authorized to carry firearms or undergo comprehensive weapons training, was found with a cut-to-size firearm.
In addition to these arrests, the ESSC reported the apprehension of two other suspects in separate operations across the state for possession of firearms and theft. Balogun stated that these arrests were the result of routine patrols and intelligence-driven operations aimed at purging communities of criminal elements.
Speaking to reporters, Ehiotu claimed to reside at the S&T barracks in Benin City and alleged that he obtained the army uniform from an officer stationed at the barracks.
Balogun stated that all suspects will be handed over to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution. The ESSC reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens of Edo State.
