A young man dressed in a Ghana Armed Forces military camouflage uniform has been arrested at Karaga in the Northern Region for allegedly impersonating a military officer.
The suspect, who identified himself as Captain Mohammed Abdul Kahad, was arrested by soldiers deployed on peacekeeping duties after his activities raised suspicions.
According to the soldiers, the suspect was seen moving around a community in Karaga while wearing full military attire and allegedly telling residents that he was a serving officer of the 6th Infantry Battalion (6BN).
However, his conduct and inability to provide credible information about his alleged military service prompted the soldiers to intervene.
Suspect fails to provide military identification
After being taken into custody, the alleged fake army captain was questioned by the soldiers. During interrogation, he reportedly failed to provide a valid military service number or accurately identify the unit he claimed to serve with.
He was also unable to satisfactorily explain how he obtained the military uniform he was wearing.
The inconsistencies in his responses increased the soldiers’ suspicion that he was not a genuine member of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Military investigations uncover alleged impersonation
Preliminary investigations by the military have reportedly established that the suspect is not known within the ranks of the Ghana Armed Forces.
The findings have strengthened the allegation that the man was falsely presenting himself as a military officer and using the identity and appearance of a soldier without authorisation.
Military impersonation is a growing security concern in some parts of Ghana, as individuals wearing military or police uniforms may attempt to exploit the authority associated with security personnel.
Such individuals can potentially use fake identities to intimidate, defraud or manipulate unsuspecting members of the public.
Police take over investigation
The suspect has been handed over to the Ghana Police Service in Karaga for further investigations.
Police investigators are expected to establish the suspect’s true identity, determine where he obtained the military uniform and investigate whether he acted alone or was connected to a broader military impersonation or fraud scheme.
Authorities have repeatedly urged members of the public to be cautious when dealing with individuals claiming to be military or police officers, particularly where they cannot produce valid identification.
The public is also encouraged to report suspicious persons wearing military or police uniforms without verifiable identification to the nearest security agency.
Further updates are expected as police investigations continue and authorities determine whether the suspect will face prosecution under Ghana’s laws relating to impersonation of security personnel.
Source: newsthemegh.com