The Nigerian Army has foiled an alleged recruitment scam in Taraba State, leading to the arrest of a suspected fraudster accused of extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public.
The suspect, identified as 51-year-old Felix Yadeh, was apprehended by a local vigilante group in Bantaje Village, Wukari Local Government Area.
He was subsequently handed over to troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army stationed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wukari.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Yadeh allegedly collected a total of ₦3,627,000 from victims under the false promise of securing recruitment slots into the Nigerian Army.
During interrogation, he reportedly confessed that he acted on the instructions of his younger brother, who directed him to collect the money as enlistment fees.
Items recovered from the suspect include an Infinix Android mobile phone and ₦3,050 in cash. He is currently in military custody as investigations continue to uncover the full extent of the fraud and identify possible accomplices.
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Commander of the 6 Brigade and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commended both the troops and the vigilante group for their swift response and vigilance.
He reiterated the Army’s commitment to ridding the region of criminal activities and warned the public against falling victim to individuals claiming they can facilitate recruitment into the Nigerian Army for a fee.
The Army emphasized that its recruitment process is free, transparent, and strictly merit-based, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities related to extortion or impersonation to security agencies.
This operation aligns with directives from the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuibu, aimed at eliminating fraud, extortion, and other criminal activities nationwide.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining peace, security, and the protection of lives and property in Taraba State and beyond.
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