…..Man caught in tactical uniform with fake pistol, allegedly extorting motorists
By: Abdullahi Inuwa
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a man accused of impersonating its personnel and allegedly using a fake firearm to intimidate and extort motorists in Abuja.
The suspect, identified as Moferewa Maiye, was apprehended late Wednesday after DSS operatives reportedly tracked him to a hideout around NITEL Junction along Adetokunbo Ademola Way, Wuse II.
Maiye, who claimed to be from Agbajojun Village in Mopamuro Local Government Area of Kogi State, was allegedly dressed in DSS tactical uniform when officers arrested him. A fake pistol was also reportedly recovered from him.
A security source said the arrest followed intelligence indicating that the suspect had been posing as a DSS operative to intimidate commuters and motorists and collect money from them.
During questioning, Maiye allegedly told investigators that the uniform and other DSS items belonged to his late brother, identified as Monday Maiye, who he claimed had served with the Service before his death several years ago.
However, the explanation has not ended the investigation, as DSS operatives are now working to establish how the suspect obtained the official-looking uniform and equipment and whether he had been involved in similar activities previously.
The suspect remains in custody while investigations continue.
Security authorities are particularly concerned about the activities of individuals who impersonate law enforcement officers, noting that such acts can be used to intimidate innocent members of the public, facilitate extortion and undermine confidence in genuine security personnel.
The DSS has therefore continued efforts to identify and apprehend persons who unlawfully use the identity, uniforms or equipment of security agencies to commit criminal acts.
Source:@ZagazolaMakama
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