DSS Arrests Two Dismissed Officers For Impersonation, Fraud
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested two dismissed officers, identified as Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, for allegedly impersonating the agency to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
The Service, in a statement issued on Wednesday, confirmed that the duo—who had earlier been declared wanted in separate public advisories—had been apprehended and would be prosecuted in line with existing laws.
According to the DSS, “The Department of State Services recently issued disclaimers on two dismissed personnel of the Service, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin.
“These individuals were alleged to be cloaking under the Service to engage in fraudulent activities.
“The public is hereby notified that these culprits have been apprehended and will face prosecution in accordance with the law.”
The arrests follow a series of prior alerts in which the DSS cautioned the public against dealing with the ex-officers, who were dismissed for professional misconduct but allegedly continued posing as serving operatives to carry out illegal transactions.
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Earlier, on October 8, the Service had released a separate statement concerning Barry Donald after reports emerged that he had been using the DSS name to deceive individuals and organisations for financial gain.
Reaffirming its stance, the DSS emphasised its commitment to shielding Nigerians from impostors and restoring confidence in the agency’s integrity.
The service also disclosed that it intends to publish the names of other previously dismissed personnel to prevent further exploitation of citizens.
“The service has further resolved to publish the names of other personnel who were dismissed in the past to prevent citizens from falling victim to possible criminal intent of any of these individuals,” the statement added.
The DSS urged Nigerians to verify all engagements and official transactions through its verified communication channels and to report suspicious persons claiming affiliation with the Service promptly.
