The Department of State Services has arrested a man, Moferewa Maiye, for allegedly posing as one of its operatives and using a fake pistol to intimidate and extort motorists and commuters in Abuja.
According to The Punch, Maiye was apprehended by DSS personnel on Wednesday night at a hideout near NITEL Junction along Adetokunbo Ademola Way, Wuse II, following intelligence received by the security agency.
The suspect was reportedly wearing a DSS tactical uniform when he was arrested and was also found with what investigators described as a fake firearm.
A security source said Maiye allegedly used the uniform and imitation weapon to create the impression that he was a genuine security operative while demanding money from motorists and other members of the public.
The suspect reportedly told investigators that he was from Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to the source, Maiye claimed that his late brother, identified as Monday Maiye, had worked with the DSS and that the uniform and other items recovered from him had belonged to his deceased sibling.
“Investigators are also trying to establish how long the suspect has been involved in similar acts of impersonation and extortion,” the source said.
Maiye remains in DSS custody as investigators continue questioning him over the allegations.
The agency is also investigating how he allegedly obtained the DSS uniform and other tactical items found in his possession, as well as whether he may have been involved in similar incidents previously.
The source said the arrest highlighted the security agency’s concern over the growing activities of individuals who allegedly impersonate security personnel to intimidate members of the public and engage in criminal activities.
“The arrest underscores growing concerns by the Service over the activities of individuals who impersonate security personnel to intimidate members of the public and commit criminality,” the source added.
