The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested 32-year-old blogger Sylvester Victor Augustus, who is accused of cloning the agency’s official website to deceive unsuspecting Nigerians with fraudulent recruitment advertisements.
After a thorough investigation by the DSS, Augustus was taken into custody on Thursday at his home on Akpan Eno Lane in Abak, Akwa Ibom State. In an attempt to trick others into falling for his scams, the suspect, who poses as a University of Uyo alumnus, allegedly made a fake DSS website and placed phoney employment ads.
In a statement, the Department of State Services condemned Augustus’s actions and reiterated its commitment to combating cybercrimes. The agency urged Nigerians to be cautious of online scams and to verify recruitment information through official government channels.
“Fake recruitment advertisements and cloned websites have become tools for fraudsters to exploit unsuspecting citizens. The DSS will not relent in identifying and prosecuting cybercriminals who misuse digital platforms for illicit activities,” the statement read.
Augustus’s arrest is part of a broader DSS crackdown on individuals operating fraudulent websites and social media accounts. Sources within the agency confirmed that several suspects are under investigation, with some already facing prosecution in courts across the country.
The Department of State Services called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious online activities to the appropriate authorities. The agency emphasised the importance of using only verified platforms for official information to avoid falling victim to scams.
As the DSS works to shield Nigerians from online abuse, Augustus is anticipated to be charged with fraud, impersonation, and cybercrime.
