DSS Seizes Large Arms Cache, Arrests British Army Officer in Delta State
The Department of State Services (DSS) has uncovered a major arms cache during a covert operation in Asaba, Delta State, seizing 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and over 3,000 rounds of ammunition.
Among those arrested was a serving Itsekiri officer in the British Army, whose identity remains undisclosed. He is alleged to have procured the weapons on behalf of an individual identified only as Collins.
Multiple DSS sources confirmed on Friday night that operatives from the Delta State Command apprehended the British Army Major and several associates over their involvement in the illegal arms transaction.
The British officer was arrested in Lagos while attempting to board a flight to the United Kingdom, while his accomplices were captured during the arms exchange in Asaba.
A source stated, “An Itsekiri serving in the British Army is alleged to have secured weapons and ammunition at the behest of one Collins to foment unrest in Warri. During a covert exchange near Asaba, DSS operatives apprehended the arms supplier and his associates, recovering over 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition.”
“Shortly after, DSS agents in Lagos intercepted the British Major as he attempted to flee the country. All suspects are now in DSS custody. A thorough and transparent investigation is underway, and anyone found plotting tribal conflict will be held accountable.”
Sources suggest the seized arms were intended for groups opposed to the recently concluded delineation of wards and polling units in the Warri Federal Constituency.
A prominent traditional ruler is also reportedly under discreet investigation in connection with the arms deal.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had recently presented its delineation report for the Warri Federal Constituency to representatives of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic groups.
At a meeting held in Asaba, Etekamba Umoren, Resident Electoral Commissioner representing the INEC Chairman, explained that the delineation exercise followed a Supreme Court ruling issued on December 22, 2022, which mandated the Commission to undertake the project.
Copies of the new delineation report were formally presented to Chief Victor Okumagba, Dr. Andrew Igban, and Dr. Joe Bisina, representing the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw communities, respectively.
During the meeting, Umoren noted that it was the fifth engagement with stakeholders since the Supreme Court ruling, adding that the Commission was ready to adopt the new delineation as its working document. He urged stakeholders to review the report carefully and provide feedback.
However, the delineation exercise has stirred tension in Delta State, with some groups expressing strong opposition.
In contrast, a coalition of Ijaw youths recently staged a solidarity protest at INEC headquarters in Abuja, voicing their support for the project.
The youths, drawn from the Gbaramatu, Egbema, Diebiri, and Isaba communities, hailed the delineation as a fair and transparent process that aligns with the Supreme Court’s judgment. They praised INEC for addressing what they described as the historical political marginalization of the Ijaw people within the constituency.