DSS nabs fake operative extorting Abuja motorists with toy gun

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The Department of State Services has arrested a man identified as Moferewa Maiye for allegedly impersonating an officer of the Service and using a fake firearm to extort commuters and motorists in Abuja.

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Maiye was arrested late Wednesday by DSS operatives at his hideout around NITEL Junction, along Adetokunbo Ademola Way, Wuse II, Abuja, following credible intelligence received by the Service.

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At the time of his arrest, the suspect was allegedly dressed in a DSS tactical uniform and had a fake pistol in his possession.

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A security source said the suspect had been using the uniform and weapon to intimidate commuters and motorists, and allegedly extort money from them.

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The source said Maiye, who claimed to be from Agbajojun Village in the Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State, told investigators that his brother was a DSS operative who died several years ago.

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According to the source, the suspect identified his late brother as Monday Maiye and claimed that the DSS uniform and other items found in his possession belonged to him.

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“Investigators are also trying to establish how long the suspect has been involved in similar acts of impersonation and extortion,” the source said.

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The suspect remains in DSS custody and is being interrogated, while investigators are probing how he obtained the Service’s uniform and other tactical equipment.

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The source said the arrest underscored its growing concern over the activities of individuals who impersonate security personnel to intimidate members of the public and commit criminal acts.

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“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.

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