A dismissed soldier, Emmanuel Anthony, aged 34, has been paraded by the Osun State Police Command for his alleged involvement in kidnapping and armed robbery. The suspect, who served in the Nigerian Army for over 14 years, confessed to turning to crime following his dismissal from service.
During his confession, Anthony disclosed that he was court-martialled and dismissed for misconduct, indiscipline, and insubordination. He narrated how he and his accomplice, David Agbebaku—also a dismissed soldier—kidnapped a young man who was later forced to transfer ₦3 million into a Moniepoint account. Out of this sum, ₦2 million was allegedly transferred to Anthony’s account.
“I served in the Nigerian Army for fourteen years, nine months, and even went on a United Nations mission in 2014 under 35 192 Battalion, as well as operations in the North East. However, I was dismissed as a corporal in January this year for misconduct and desertion. I deeply regret my actions and hope for forgiveness,” Anthony admitted.
The Osun State Police spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, revealed that the duo had been targeting motorists around Esa-Oke, robbing them of their valuables while disguised in military uniforms. Opalola recounted how a report led to their arrest.
The complainant stated that the suspects, dressed in military attire and using a Honda Pilot Jeep, ambushed them along Ekiti Road and forced them into the bush. The victim was compelled to transfer the ₦3 million before being released. Other victims, identified as Olawumi Oluwaseun and Ishola, were also attacked and robbed of iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 devices worth ₦1.25 million.
Acting on intelligence, detectives traced the Moniepoint account to David Agbebaku, who had already been apprehended by the Oyo State Police Command. Further investigations led to the arrest of Anthony in Ibadan. During interrogation, he confessed to collaborating with Agbebaku and two other dismissed soldiers in these criminal activities. The victims later identified him as one of the perpetrators.
Opalola assured the public that the suspect would be arraigned in court soon, affirming the police’s commitment to justice and the eradication of crime in the state.
