The Department of State Services has apprehended two former officers, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, for allegedly impersonating the agency and defrauding unsuspecting Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the DSS confirmed that the suspects, who had been declared wanted earlier for fraudulent activities, have been arrested and will face prosecution.
“The Department of State Services recently issued disclaimers on two dismissed personnel, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin. These individuals were alleged to be operating under the Service’s name to engage in fraudulent acts. The public is hereby notified that they have been apprehended and will face prosecution in accordance with the law,” the statement read.
The Service noted that both individuals had previously been dismissed for misconduct but continued to parade themselves as active DSS operatives, deceiving unsuspecting members of the public.
Just days earlier, on October 13, the DSS raised an alarm over the activities of Godwin, accusing him of impersonating the agency to swindle Nigerians. Similarly, on October 8, another statement warned against Donald, who was also said to be using the DSS identity for fraudulent purposes.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting citizens from impostors, the DSS disclosed plans to publish the names of other previously dismissed personnel to prevent future cases of fraud.
“The Service has resolved to publish the names of other personnel dismissed in the past to prevent citizens from falling victim to the criminal activities of such individuals,” it added.
The agency also advised the public to verify any official engagements through its verified communication channels and promptly report any suspicious activity involving persons claiming to represent the DSS.
The Service assured that it remains steadfast in maintaining public trust and safeguarding Nigerians from impersonators who seek to exploit the agency’s name for criminal gain.
