DSS Arrests Fake Operative Who Used Toy Gun to Extort Abuja Motorists

The Department of State Services has apprehended a man identified as Moferewa Maiye for allegedly posing as one of its officers and using a fake firearm to extort money from commuters and motorists in Abuja.

DSS operatives arrested Maiye late Wednesday at his hideout near NITEL Junction along Adetokunbo Ademola Way in Wuse II, Abuja, acting on credible intelligence. At the time of his arrest, he was reportedly dressed in DSS tactical uniform and was found in possession of a fake pistol.

A security source said the suspect had been using the uniform and weapon to intimidate motorists and commuters, extorting money from unsuspecting victims. According to the source, Maiye, who claims to hail from Agbajojun Village in the Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State, told investigators that his late brother, Monday Maiye, had once served as a DSS operative. He alleged that the uniform and other items recovered from him belonged to his deceased brother.

Investigators are now working to determine how long the suspect had been carrying out similar acts of impersonation and extortion, as well as how he came into possession of the Service’s uniform and tactical equipment. He remains in DSS custody and continues to be interrogated.

The source noted that the arrest reflects the Service’s rising concern over individuals who impersonate security personnel to intimidate the public and carry out criminal activities.