DSS Arrests Two Dismissed Officers for Impersonation and Fraud

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

In a statement released on Wednesday, the DSS confirmed that the suspects, who had earlier been declared wanted in separate public warnings, were apprehended and will be prosecuted according to the law. The agency noted that both individuals had been dismissed from service but continued to pose as DSS operatives to engage in fraudulent activities.

“The Department of State Services recently issued disclaimers on two dismissed personnel, 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 DSS said.

Their arrest follows several alerts from the DSS warning Nigerians not to deal with the dismissed officers, who were accused of misconduct before their termination. In recent weeks, the Service had issued separate public notices—one concerning Godwin, accused of defrauding citizens under the guise of DSS authority, and another on October 8 regarding Donald, who was similarly charged with impersonation.

The DSS reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigerians from impostors and maintaining public trust. It also disclosed plans to publish the names of other dismissed personnel to prevent future scams. The Service urged the public to verify any engagement with its officials through verified communication channels and to promptly report suspicious activities involving individuals claiming to represent the agency.