The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) VICTORY has handed over two suspected naval impersonators to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) of the Nigeria Police Force in Calabar for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The suspects, identified as David Norbert Aleji and Francis Gideon Isaac, were arrested on 10 March 2026 after they were found dressed in military camouflage and allegedly in possession of fake military identification cards.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Director of Naval Information, Captain A.A. Folorunsho, said preliminary investigations revealed that Aleji allegedly posed as a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, while Isaac falsely claimed to be a Midshipman. Both suspects reportedly presented themselves as personnel serving aboard NNS SAGBAMA.
According to the Navy, further investigation showed that Aleji, who had previously undergone some training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, was the alleged mastermind of the impersonation scheme. He was said to have recruited Isaac, who resides with him, into the operation.
A search of their residence reportedly led to the recovery of additional military-related items, including a jungle hat and a pair of boots. The suspects also allegedly confessed that they purchased the uniforms and accessories themselves and produced the identification cards used in the impersonation.
The Nigerian Navy said the handover of the suspects to the police underscores its resolve to protect the integrity of the Service and ensure that those who attempt to tarnish its image are brought to justice.
The Navy also urged members of the public to report cases of military impersonation and other suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that such acts are criminal offences capable of undermining the credibility of the Armed Forces.
