DSS Nabs Two Ex-Operatives Over Impersonation, Fraud

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested two former operatives, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, for allegedly impersonating the agency and defrauding unsuspecting members of the public.

The Service, in a statement on Wednesday, said the suspects—who had earlier been declared wanted in separate public advisories—were apprehended following a series of intelligence operations and would soon be arraigned in court.

According to the DSS, the duo had been dismissed from service for professional misconduct but continued to parade themselves as serving officers to carry out fraudulent activities.

“The Department of State Services recently issued disclaimers on two dismissed personnel, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin,” the statement read.
“These individuals were alleged to have been masquerading as DSS operatives to defraud innocent citizens. The Service wishes to inform the public that the suspects have been arrested and will face prosecution in accordance with the law.”

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians from impostors and restoring public confidence in its operations.

Earlier, on October 8, the DSS had raised a separate alert about Barry Donald, following reports that he was using the Service’s name to deceive individuals and organisations for financial gain.

In a renewed effort to curb similar incidents, the DSS disclosed plans to publish the names of other dismissed personnel to prevent further cases of impersonation and public exploitation.

“The Service has resolved to release the names of other dismissed staff to help citizens identify and avoid falling prey to criminal schemes by such individuals,” the statement added.

The DSS also urged Nigerians to verify all official engagements through its approved communication channels and to promptly report anyone claiming false affiliation with the agency.