DSS Cracks Down on Major Arms Trafficking in Delta: Suspects Arrested and Deadly Weapons Seized

In a significant security operation in Asaba, the capital of Delta State, the Department of State Services (DSS) successfully seized a large quantity of advanced weaponry. The raid, conducted on October 12, 2025, resulted in the capture of a well-known arms trafficker, Stephen Sabo Atoshi, alongside his accomplice, a 40-year-old secondary school educator from Taraba State.
The Deputy Director of Operations for the DSS in Delta State, Mr. Anthony Ifemeje, briefed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Monday in Asaba, revealing that the suspects were integral members of a smuggling ring funneling small arms and light weapons from Sebha in southern Libya, passing through Chad, and entering Nigeria via an illicit border crossing in Geidam, Yobe State.
During interrogation, the lead suspect admitted to being involved in the illegal arms trade for eight years, confessing to distributing over 55 firearms nationwide, including general purpose machine guns and AK-47 rifles, according to Ifemeje.
The DSS official assured the state government of their unwavering commitment to disrupting arms trafficking channels and dismantling criminal syndicates operating within Delta State.
The cache recovered comprised seven general purpose machine guns, multiple AK-47 rifles, five hand grenades, and other military-grade arms. Notably, some weapons were hidden inside sacks of beans transported from northern Nigeria to the Oko Food Market along the Asaba-Onitsha Expressway. Additionally, the DSS uncovered 497 cartons of counterfeit pharmaceuticals intended for circulation within the state.
Governor Oborevwori responded by mandating a thorough crackdown on criminal networks following the seizure. He lauded the DSS for what he termed a pivotal achievement in the ongoing battle against insecurity in Delta State.
He commended the intelligence, coordination, and resolve demonstrated by the DSS and other security agencies, emphasizing that this success underscores Delta State’s dedication to maintaining peace and safeguarding its citizens.
The governor issued a stern warning against any form of violence or lawlessness, particularly in Warri and its surrounding areas.
“The introduction of such heavy weaponry poses a grave threat to our collective security and will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he declared, urging residents to collaborate with security forces to ensure the state’s safety.
Expressing his satisfaction with the operation, Oborevwori noted, “I prioritized attending this briefing over other engagements because this breakthrough is crucial for the peace and security of our state.”
He cautioned those contemplating unrest to reconsider, stressing the administration’s focus on peace and economic development. “We are committed to transforming Warri into a hub for investors and growth, but violence will only drive them away,” he warned.
The governor further vowed that individuals involved in violence, killings, or arms smuggling would be relentlessly pursued and brought to justice. He reaffirmed Delta State’s reputation as a peaceful and investor-friendly environment and pledged to resist any efforts aimed at destabilization.
Governor Oborevwori concluded by reiterating his administration’s dedication to fostering unity, development, and security, emphasizing that no group or individual would be allowed to usurp the rule of law in Delta State.