The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a man who posed as a Colonel in the Nigerian Army to cheat people of their money through fake job offers.

The suspect, Abdullahi Saliu, was caught at Top Quality Hotel after police investigations linked him to a N1.3 million employment scam.

Police spokesperson DSP Olushola Ayanlade confirmed the arrest in a statement on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

Saliu reportedly convinced two women, Oshoade Janet and Daisi Remilekun Joy, to pay him N1,377,000 with the promise of getting their sons jobs in the Nigeria Customs Service and Immigration Service.

It was later discovered that he had no connection with these agencies and had used the money for himself.

Police investigations also revealed that Saliu had duped people in several states, including Edo, Delta, Kogi, and Ondo. He had been pretending to be senior officers of the Army, Navy, Customs, and Immigration to gain people’s trust.

“This was all part of his tricks to defraud hardworking Nigerians,” Ayanlade said.

The suspect has already been charged to Magistrate Court 1 for prosecution.

The Ondo Police Command assured residents of its commitment to protect lives and property while bringing fraudsters to justice.

They also praised the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his leadership and support that continues to inspire the force.