The Nigerian Navy has handed over two men suspected of impersonating military personnel to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The suspects, identified as David Novert Aleji and Francis Gideon Isaac, were arrested on March 10, 2026, by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship Victory in Calabar.
They were reportedly found wearing military camouflage uniforms and carrying fake identification cards.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Aleji allegedly posed as a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, while Isaac claimed to be a Midshipman serving on Nigerian Navy Ship Sagbama.
During a search of their residence, naval officers reportedly recovered additional military items, including a jungle hat and boots believed to have been used to support their impersonation.
Authorities said Aleji, who allegedly masterminded the scheme, had previously received training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron. Investigators also believe he recruited Isaac, who had been staying with him.
Both suspects reportedly confessed to purchasing the camouflage vest, jungle hat, and boots, and producing the fake military identification cards.
After their arrest, the suspects were transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department of the police in Calabar for further investigation.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Navy has continued its operations against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering under Operation Delta Sentinel.
As part of the operation, naval personnel destroyed an illegal crude oil storage site within the Forward Operating Base area in Bonny, Rivers State.
According to the Director of Naval Information, A. A. Folorunsho, the illegal facility was discovered through maritime surveillance technology in the Opotumbi area.
Naval operatives found four concealed dugout pits containing about 17,500 litres of substances suspected to be stolen crude oil.
He said the products were destroyed in line with operational guidelines, noting that the action reflects the navy’s continued efforts to combat maritime crime, crude oil theft, and protect Nigeria’s economic interests.
