By Asuquo Cletus
The Nigerian Navy has arrested two suspected naval impersonators in Cross River State.
The suspects, identified as David Norbert Aleji and Francis Gideon Isaac, were apprehended on March 10, 2026 by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship NNS Victory in Calabar.
According to a statement by the Navy, the suspects were arrested after they were found dressed in military camouflage and allegedly in possession of suspected fake military identification cards.
Preliminary findings revealed that Aleji allegedly paraded himself as a Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy, while Isaac impersonated a Midshipman. The duo also reportedly claimed they were personnel serving onboard NNS Saghbama.
The statement further disclosed that Aleji, who previously received training at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron, allegedly masterminded the impersonation scheme and recruited Isaac, who lives with him.
It added that a search conducted at their residence led to the recovery of additional military-related items, including a jungle hat and a pair of boots.
“The suspects admitted that the uniforms and accessories were purchased by them, while the identification cards were produced by themselves.
“The suspects have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force State Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar for further investigation and possible prosecution.”- The Statement added.
The Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of the service and urged members of the public to report cases of impersonation, noting that such acts constitute criminal offences capable of bringing the Navy into disrepute.
