The Tema Regional Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man who allegedly posed as a military officer and extorted money from residents in Ashaiman, near Tema, in the Greater Accra Region.
The suspect, identified by the Police as Bright Atsu Kudiabor, is reportedly an ex-convict. He was arrested on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at approximately 7:00 a.m. at an area locally known as “I Shall Return” in Ashaiman. Editorial Standards
In a statement issued on September 16, the Tema Regional Police Command alleged that Kudiabor had been presenting himself as a soldier and demanding money from unsuspecting residents in the community.
The Police statement said the suspect “was parading himself as a soldier and extorting money from unsuspecting victims in the area.”
The arrest followed an intervention by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), who reportedly apprehended the suspect with assistance from some residents. He was subsequently handed over to the Ghana Police Service for further investigation.
A search conducted on the suspect after his arrest allegedly led to the recovery of a set of military camouflage uniform. The Police are expected to examine the clothing and other relevant evidence as part of efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged impersonation and extortion. Corrections Policy
Military impersonation is a serious concern because it can undermine public confidence in the security services and create opportunities for individuals to intimidate, deceive or unlawfully obtain money from members of the public. The use of military clothing or the claim of being a security officer may cause victims to comply with demands out of fear or respect for the authority associated with the uniform.
The Police have not disclosed the specific amounts allegedly collected from victims, the number of persons affected, or whether any additional items were recovered during the arrest. Those details may emerge as investigators take statements from the suspect, complainants and witnesses.
The Tema Regional Police Command said the suspect remains in custody and is assisting with investigations. The Police added that he will be put before the court after the investigative process is completed. Editorial Ethics & Independence
The statement does not indicate that the suspect has been convicted in relation to the latest allegations. As a result, the claims against him remain allegations until they are tested through the judicial process. The arrest and possession of military-style clothing, on their own, do not establish guilt.
The Police have meanwhile urged residents to remain vigilant and to report individuals who falsely claim to be soldiers or officers of other security agencies in order to extort money from the public.
Members of the public have been advised to exercise caution when approached by persons demanding money while claiming to act on behalf of the military, Police Service, Fire Service or other security institutions. Where possible, suspected impersonators should be reported through official security channels rather than confronted in ways that could lead to violence or further risk.
The incident also highlights the importance of verifying the identity and authority of individuals who present themselves as security personnel, particularly when they make financial demands or threaten members of the public. Legitimate security operations are expected to follow established procedures, and suspicious conduct should be brought to the attention of the appropriate authorities.
The Police are expected to continue gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses before determining the appropriate charges, if any, against the suspect. Further details may be released as the investigation progresses and the matter is brought before the court.