The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a man accused of impersonating its personnel and allegedly using a tactical uniform and fake firearm to intimidate and extort motorists in Abuja.
The suspect, identified as Moferewa Maiye from Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State, was arrested late Wednesday around NITEL Junction along Adetokunbo Ademola Way, Wuse II.
A security source told Zagazola Makama that the DSS acted on credible intelligence that Maiye had allegedly been posing as a DSS operative and using the uniform and fake weapon to intimidate commuters and motorists.
“He was arrested in possession of a DSS tactical uniform and a fake pistol,” the source said.
According to the source, the suspect was trailed to his hideout before being apprehended by DSS operatives.
“He was using the uniform and the fake weapon to intimidate commuters and motorists and extort money from them,” the source added.
During interrogation, Maiye reportedly claimed that his late brother, identified as Monday Maiye, was a DSS personnel.
“He told investigators that his brother was a DSS personnel who died years ago,” the source said.
The suspect also allegedly told investigators that the DSS uniform and other items found in his possession belonged to his late brother.
“He claimed that the DSS kit in his possession was his late brother’s,” the source said.
The DSS is now investigating how the suspect obtained the uniform and other items bearing the identity of the Service.
“Investigators are trying to establish how he came about the DSS uniform and kit,” the source said.
Officials are also examining whether Maiye had previously engaged in similar acts.
“Investigators are also trying to establish how long the suspect has been involved in similar acts of impersonation and extortion,” the source added.
The suspect remains in custody while interrogation and investigations continue.
The source said the arrest was part of efforts to prevent criminals from exploiting the identity of security agencies to commit offences.
Man allegedly impersonates DSS operative, extorts motorists in Abuja