Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Delta State have intercepted a cache of sophisticated weapons allegedly destined for criminal gangs terrorising Asaba and neighbouring communities.
The intelligence-led operation, conducted on October 12, 2025, within the Asaba metropolis, led to the arrest of Stephen Sabo Atoshi, a notorious arms dealer, and his accomplice, a 40-year-old secondary school teacher from Taraba State.
Briefing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday, the Deputy Director of Operations, DSS Delta Command, Anthony Ifemeje, said the suspects were part of a network that trafficked small arms and light weapons from southern Libya through Chad into Nigeria via illegal borders in Yobe State.
“During interrogation, the prime suspect confessed to having spent eight years in the illegal trade and supplied over 55 weapons, including General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and AK-47 rifles, across the country,” Ifemeje said.
Weapons Hidden in Bags of Beans From the North
The DSS said the intercepted consignment was concealed in bags of beans being transported to the Oko Food Market along the Asaba–Onitsha Expressway.
Recovered items include:
Seven (7) General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs)
Several AK-47 rifles
Five (5) hand grenades
Hundreds of rounds of live ammunition
Other military-grade weapons
Also recovered were 497 cartons of counterfeit drugs intended for illegal distribution within Delta State.
Ifemeje assured that the DSS would continue to intensify surveillance, cut off arms supply routes, and dismantle trafficking networks threatening public safety.
Governor Oborevwori Orders Crackdown on Criminal Networks
Reacting to the development, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori praised the DSS for what he described as a “major breakthrough” in the state’s security efforts.
“This operation marks a decisive victory against those trying to destabilize Delta. I commend the DSS for their bravery and professionalism,” the governor said.
He directed security agencies to launch an immediate crackdown on criminal syndicates operating across the state, warning that his administration will not tolerate any individual or group attempting to undermine peace.
Speaking on the recent killing of Jerry Aduara, a youth leader from Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, the governor vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice.
“I have directed the security agencies to arrest whoever shot and killed somebody in Warri. Nobody involved will go scot-free because this is Delta State, and we want peace,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining peace, unity, and development, emphasizing that Delta must remain a safe haven for investors and residents.
Source: The Bureau News
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