Nigerian Journal Sustainability Research

DSS Arrests Man Impersonating Its Operatives, Using Toy Gun to Extort Motorists in Abuja

2026-08-22
The Arrest

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a man accused of impersonating one of its operatives and using a toy gun to intimidate and extort money from motorists and commuters across Abuja. The suspect, identified as Moferewa Maiye, was apprehended late Wednesday night after DSS operatives tracked him to his hideout near NITEL Junction along Adetokunbo Ademola Way in the Wuse II district, following what the Service described as credible intelligence.

At the time of his arrest, Maiye was reportedly wearing a full DSS tactical uniform and carrying a fake pistol. Officers seized both items from him during the operation.

How the Alleged Scheme Worked

According to a security source, Maiye used the uniform and the toy firearm to project false authority, intimidating drivers and commuters into handing over money by making them believe he was a genuine security operative. "He was using the uniform and the fake weapon to intimidate commuters and motorists and extort money from them," the source said.

His Explanation During Questioning

During interrogation, Maiye reportedly told investigators he hails from Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State. He claimed the DSS uniform and equipment he was found with actually belonged to his late brother, Monday Maiye, who he said had once served as a genuine DSS operative before passing away several years ago.

What Investigators Are Still Trying to Establish

The DSS says it is now working to determine how long Maiye had been carrying out this kind of impersonation and extortion, and whether he had engaged in similar acts before this arrest. Investigators are also probing exactly how he came into possession of the uniform and gear, to verify his claim about it belonging to his brother.

The Broader Concern

DSS officials framed the arrest as part of a wider pattern the Service has been monitoring, individuals exploiting the identity and insignia of security agencies to intimidate and defraud ordinary Nigerians. A statement attributed to a security source said the case "underscores growing concerns by the Service over the activities of individuals who impersonate security personnel to intimidate members of the public and commit criminality," and the DSS indicated it would continue pursuing anyone found impersonating its personnel or misusing its insignia for criminal purposes.

Where the Case Stands

Maiye remains in DSS custody as operatives continue interrogating him and working to establish the full scope of his alleged activities. No formal charges had been publicly announced as of the latest reporting, with the investigation described as still ongoing.

Sources