The Department of State Services (DSS) has recovered 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition during a covert operation in Asaba, Delta State. The agency also arrested an Itsekiri serving in the British Army, who allegedly procured the weapons at the behest of one Collins.

According to DSS sources, the operatives from the DSS Delta Command apprehended the prime suspect, a Major in the British Army, and several associates in connection with the illegal arms supply. The British army officer was reportedly intercepted in Lagos as he was about to board a flight to the United Kingdom, while his associates were apprehended in Asaba.

A source stated, “An Itsekiri serving in the British Army is alleged to have procured weapons and ammunition at the behest of one Collins to instigate unrest in Warri. During a covert exchange near Asaba in Delta State, operatives from the DSS Delta Command apprehended the arms supplier and several associates, seizing over 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition.”

The DSS suspects that the arms were procured by those opposed to the delineation of the wards and polling units in the Warri Federal Constituency. A powerful traditional ruler is also being discreetly investigated in connection with the matter.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier presented the report on the delineation of wards and polling units in the Warri Federal Constituency to the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities. However, the planned delineation has stoked tension in the state, with some groups and stakeholders opposed to the exercise.

The DSS has promised to carry out a full and transparent investigation and hold anyone found plotting tribal conflicts accountable. “All suspects are now in DSS custody. The DSS will carry out a full and transparent investigation and hold anyone found plotting tribal conflicts to account,” a source said.