Army stops alleged recruitment scam, recovers cash and phone in Taraba

The Headquarters 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army has stepped up its campaign against criminality in Taraba state, achieving another operational victory with the arrest of a man accused of running a recruitment scam.

The suspect, Mr. Felix Yadeh, 51, was seized by a local vigilante group in Bantaje Village, Wukari Local Government Area, and then handed over to troops of the 6 Brigade stationed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wukari.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Mr. Yadeh collected a total of N3,627,000 from the public by falsely promising them recruitment slots in the Nigerian Army.

During interrogation, the suspect admitted that his younger brother had instructed him to gather the money from victims as supposed recruitment fees.

Items seized from the suspect include an Infinix Android mobile phone and N3,050 in cash.

Both the suspect and the recovered items remain in military custody while investigators work to determine the full extent of the alleged fraud and identify any accomplices.

Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, commander of the 6 Brigade and Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke, praised the troops and the vigilante group for their vigilance and prompt action that led to the arrest.

He reiterated the Brigade’s commitment to cleansing the operational environment and cautioned the public against falling victim to individuals who claim they can secure Army recruitment in exchange for money.

The Brigade stressed that enlistment in the Nigerian Army is free, transparent, and strictly merit‑based, and urged citizens to report any suspicious persons or activities related to extortion, impersonation, or recruitment scams to security agencies.

The operation aligns with the directive of Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shuibu to eradicate criminality, extortion, and fraudulent activities nationwide.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining peace, security, and the protection of lives and property throughout Taraba State and its environs.