DSS dismisses 115 officers, warns public against impostors

The Department of State Services (DSS), has dismissed 115 of its personnel as part of ongoing internal reforms, with a warning to the public to refrain from dealing with former operatives who continue to parade themselves as serving officers.

In a statement posted on X on Tuesday, the agency said the affected personnel were disengaged over a period of time. It added that despite earlier public disclaimers, some of the dismissed operatives were still using the DSS identity to defraud unsuspecting citizens.

“As part of the ongoing reforms in the Department of State Services, the public is hereby informed that a total of 115 personnel have been dismissed over a period,” the statement read.

The service specifically noted that two former operatives, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin – on whom disclaimers had been issued in October – have continued to impersonate the agency. Both men were arrested and will face prosecution, according to the DSS.

“Members of the public are therefore advised to desist from any official dealing with these individuals who have been dismissed by the service,” it stated.

The DSS said the names of all dismissed personnel have been published on its website to provide clarity and prevent further impersonation.