The Tema Regional Police Command has apprehended a 32-year-old ex-convict who allegedly masqueraded as a military officer and exploited unsuspecting residents in Ashaiman for financial gain.

The suspect, identified as Bright Atsu Kudiabor, was arrested at about 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at “I Shall Return,” a suburb of Ashaiman.

According to the Police, Kudiabor had allegedly been parading himself as a soldier and using the assumed identity to extort money from residents in the community.

His activities reportedly came to the attention of personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in Ashaiman, who, with assistance from some residents, apprehended him and subsequently handed him over to the Police.

A search conducted on the suspect following his arrest allegedly led to the retrieval of a set of military camouflage uniform, which has been secured as part of evidence in the ongoing investigation.

In a statement dated September 16, the Police said the suspect remained in custody and was assisting investigators to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged impersonation and extortion.

“The suspect is currently in custody assisting with investigations and will be put before court after investigations are concluded,” the Police stated.

The arrest brings renewed attention to the growing concern over individuals who allegedly impersonate personnel of Ghana’s security agencies to intimidate, deceive or unlawfully solicit money from members of the public.

The Tema Regional Police Command has consequently urged residents to remain vigilant and exercise caution when approached by persons claiming to be soldiers or officers of other security agencies.

The public has also been encouraged to report suspected cases of security personnel impersonation to the appropriate authorities to facilitate prompt intervention and possible prosecution.

Kudiabor, who has a previous criminal conviction, remains in Police custody pending the conclusion of investigations and his subsequent appearance before the court.

The Police have not disclosed further details regarding the nature or extent of the alleged extortion activities as investigations remain ongoing.