The Department of State Services (DSS), on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, announced the arrest of two of its former officers, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, for allegedly impersonating the secret police to defraud unsuspecting Nigerians.
This was contained in a statement by the DSS in which it stated that the duo—previously declared wanted in separate public warnings—had been apprehended and would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Services recently issued disclaimers on the two dismissed personnel, Barry Donald and Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, who were believed to be engaged in the use of the Agency’s name to commit fraud.
The DSS accordingly, notified the public that the culprits have been apprehended and will face prosecution soon.
The statement further explained that the arrests followed a series of alerts by the DSS warning citizens against dealing with the former officers, who were dismissed for misconduct, but they continued to pose as active operatives.
Precisely on Monday, October 13, the DSS raised an alarm over the fraudulent activities of Victor Onyedikachi Godwin, while a similar warning concerning Barry Donald was issued on October 8.
While reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Nigerians from impostors, the DSS announced plans to publish the names of other previously dismissed personnel to prevent further scams.
The statement further said; “The Service has resolved to publish the names of other dismissed staff to prevent citizens from falling victim to possible criminal acts by such individuals”.
The DSS urged members of the public to verify all official engagements through its verified communication channels and to promptly report any suspicious persons claiming to represent the Service.
