The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a man identified as Moferewa Maiye for allegedly impersonating an officer of the Service in Abuja.
Maiye, who reportedly claimed to be from Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State, was apprehended by DSS operatives after being traced to his hideout in the Federal Capital Territory. The arrest took place around NITEL Junction, along Adetokunbo Ademola Way, Wuse II, according to a security source.
The suspect was reportedly arrested wearing a DSS tactical uniform and carrying what investigators identified as a fake pistol.
The source said the Service launched the operation after receiving credible intelligence about an individual allegedly posing as a security operative. Maiye was reportedly using the uniform and imitation firearm to intimidate motorists and commuters while allegedly extorting money from them.
During interrogation, Maiye reportedly told investigators that his brother, Monday Maiye, was a DSS personnel who died several years ago.
He allegedly claimed that the tactical uniform and other DSS-related items recovered from him belonged to his late brother. However, investigators are reportedly working to establish how the suspect came into possession of the Service’s uniform and equipment. The circumstances surrounding the alleged impersonation remain under investigation.
Maiye remains in custody as DSS operatives continue questioning him over the allegations. Investigators are also examining how long he may have been involved in the alleged impersonation and whether other individuals were connected to the activities.
The Service is expected to establish whether the suspect acted alone and how he obtained the tactical kit used during the alleged offences. The arrest highlights the security concerns surrounding individuals who impersonate law-enforcement or intelligence personnel to gain authority over members of the public.
Such impersonation can provide criminals with an avenue to intimidate citizens, extort money and carry out other unlawful activities under the appearance of official authority. The DSS source said the Service would continue to take action against individuals found to be exploiting its identity or equipment for criminal purposes.
