The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a man suspected of impersonating an officer of the Service and using a fake firearm to extort commuters in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Checks by DailyVista247 show the suspect, identified as Moferewa Maiye, was apprehended late on Wednesday by operatives of the Service at his hideout around NITEL Junction, along Adetokunbo Ademola Way in Wuse II, Abuja, following credible intelligence received by the agency.
According to reports by Punch Metro and Daily Post that were corroborated by security sources, at the time of his arrest Maiye was dressed in a tactical uniform similar to the one used by the DSS and was found with what has been described as an imitation firearm. It was alleged that he used the uniform and fake pistol to intimidate commuters and motorists and to present himself as a legitimate security officer while demanding money.
During initial questioning, the suspect reportedly told investigators that he is an indigene of Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State. He further claimed that the uniform and other tactical items found in his possession belonged to his late brother, whom he identified as Monday Maiye, stating that his brother served as an operative of the DSS before his death several years ago.
Investigators are currently working to verify his claims and to establish how he came into possession of the Service's uniform and other related items. A security source familiar with the investigation said Maiye remains in DSS custody and is undergoing further interrogation.
The incident comes just weeks after security agencies in Abuja raised concerns over rising cases of individuals impersonating personnel of the DSS, Police and Civil Defence to extort road users. In Wuse II and surrounding areas like Wuse, Jabi and Gwarimpa, reports of fake officers mounting illegal checkpoints have increased, particularly at night. The DSS had in earlier advisories warned residents to be wary of persons who cannot produce proper service identification.
Under Nigerian law, impersonation of a public officer is a criminal offence under Section 108 of the Criminal Code and Section 122 of the Penal Code applicable in the FCT. The offence carries a jail term upon conviction, in addition to other charges such as unlawful possession of security kits and extortion.
This development signals the Service's concern over how impersonation not only creates fear among residents but also undermines the credibility of legitimate security agencies. For commuters in Abuja, the arrest is a reminder to always request proper identification when approached by individuals claiming to be law enforcement officers. Genuine DSS operatives on lawful duty carry service ID cards and do not demand cash by the roadside. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police division or call DSS distress lines.
The DSS has yet to release an official statement regarding the arrest, but investigations are ongoing to determine the duration of Maiye's alleged impersonation activities and whether other individuals were affected or worked with him.
