Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Department of State Services has arrested a 32‑year‑old man, Moferewa Maiye, for impersonating a personnel of the Service and using a tactical uniform and a fake pistol to intimidate and extort money from motorists and commuters in the Federal Capital Territory. The arrest, which took place late on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at a hideout around the NITEL Junction along Adetokunbo Ademola Way in Wuse II, Abuja, has exposed a disturbing new trend in which criminals exploit the identity of security agencies to terrorise the public and tarnish the reputation of the nation's premier intelligence outfit.
According to a security source who spoke to Zagazola Makama, the DSS acted on credible intelligence that Maiye had been posing as an operative of the Service, using the uniform and the fake weapon to intimidate commuters and motorists, extorting money from them. The suspect, who claimed to hail from Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State, was trailed to his hideout before being apprehended by DSS operatives. At the time of his arrest, Maiye was in full DSS tactical uniform and armed with a fake pistol, a combination that had allegedly enabled him to operate with impunity for an unknown period.
During interrogation, Maiye reportedly claimed that his brother, identified as Monday Maiye, was a DSS personnel who died years ago. He told investigators that the DSS uniform and other items found in his possession belonged to his late brother. However, the Service is investigating how he came about the uniform and kit, with officials examining whether Maiye had previously engaged in similar acts of impersonation and extortion. The suspect remains in custody while interrogation and investigations continue. The source added that investigators are also trying to establish how long the suspect has been involved in such criminal activities.
The arrest underscores growing concerns by the DSS over the activities of individuals who impersonate security personnel to intimidate members of the public and commit criminality. The Service has warned that such acts not only undermine public confidence in security agencies but also pose a serious threat to national security. The DSS has reiterated its commitment to identifying and apprehending those who engage in such illegal activities, and has urged members of the public to report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security agency.
The impersonation of security personnel has become a growing menace in Nigeria, with criminals using fake uniforms, identity cards and weapons to extort money from unsuspecting citizens. In recent months, several cases of fake military and police personnel have been reported across the country, with many suspects arrested and prosecuted. The DSS has been at the forefront of efforts to combat this trend, working closely with other security agencies to identify and dismantle criminal networks.
The arrest of Moferewa Maiye is a significant victory for the DSS, which has been under pressure to address the growing problem of impersonation and extortion. The Service has assured the public that it will continue to intensify its efforts to protect citizens and uphold the integrity of the nation's security institutions. The suspect is expected to face charges of impersonation, illegal possession of a firearm and extortion, among other offences, upon the conclusion of investigations.
For the residents of Abuja, the arrest of Maiye has brought a measure of relief, as many had fallen victim to his alleged criminal activities. However, the incident has also highlighted the need for greater vigilance and cooperation between the public and security agencies. The DSS has called on citizens to be cautious and to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a security personnel, particularly those who demand money or favours. The Service has also assured the public that it will continue to take decisive action against those who seek to undermine public safety and security.
As the investigation continues, the DSS has made it clear that it will not tolerate the impersonation of its personnel or any other security agency. The arrest of Moferewa Maiye serves as a stark warning to others who may be tempted to engage in similar activities: the long arm of the law will catch up with them, and they will face the full consequences of their actions.
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