The Nigerian Navy has handed over two suspected naval impersonators to the Nigeria Police Force State Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar, Cross River State, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The suspects, identified as David Norbert Aleji and Francis Gideon Isaac, were arrested on March 10, 2026, by personnel of NNS Victory after they were found dressed in military camouflage uniforms and in possession of suspected fake military identification cards.
Preliminary investigations indicated that Aleji allegedly posed as a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, while Isaac reportedly impersonated a Midshipman. Both suspects are said to have claimed they were serving personnel attached to NNS Sagbama.
Further findings revealed that Aleji had previously undergone some training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron and was believed to be the mastermind behind the impersonation scheme.
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Security officials said Aleji allegedly recruited Isaac, who resides with him, to participate in the act.
A search carried out at their residence reportedly led to the recovery of additional military-related items, including a jungle hat and a pair of boots. During interrogation, the suspects admitted that they purchased the uniforms and accessories themselves and produced the identification cards used in the operation.
The Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of the service and warned that military impersonation remains a serious criminal offence.
Authorities also urged members of the public to promptly report cases of impersonation or suspicious activities involving military uniforms and identity to security agencies, stressing that such acts can undermine the credibility and reputation of the armed forces.
