A man posing as a military officer was arrested in Bo on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Identified as Joseph Williams, also known by some as Lahai Kpaka, the suspect was apprehended by the Bo West Division Operations Team led by Superintendent Alieu S. Kamara in the Moriba Town Section of Bo.
Dressed in military combat attire, Williams claimed to reside at Number 3 Kings Street, King Jimmy Section, Bonthe Municipality, though some alleged he is from Perri Chiefdom in Pujehun District. Williams also claimed to be a final-year student at the University of Makeni (UNIMAC), pursuing a degree in Christian Life Education.
The suspect is accused of impersonating military personnel and engaging in fraudulent activities, including extorting money from unsuspecting individuals by claiming ties to an organization that sponsors business ventures. Several community members have identified him as a fraudster.
The suspect is currently in custody at the Regional Police Headquarters South, assisting the Criminal Investigation Department with ongoing inquiries.
Speaking on the matter, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Brima Kanneh, the Regional Police Commander South, urged potential victims to step forward.
“We encourage anyone who may have been defrauded by this individual to come forward and assist in identifying him. Your cooperation will aid in delivering justice,” said AIG Kanneh.
Further investigations revealed no records of the suspect’s affiliation with the military. According to Brigadier General G.M. Bangura, Brigade Commander of Gondama Barracks, “There is no evidence linking this man to the military. Such acts tarnish the reputation of the armed forces. We commend the police for their swift action and urge thorough investigations to prevent similar incidents.”
Authorities are continuing their investigations to determine the full extent of the suspect’s activities.
Source: Alhaji Osman Mansaray
Regional Police Media South
