DSS Arrests Suspected Gunrunner, Recovers 832 Rounds of Ammunition in Cross River

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a suspected gunrunner, Kelvin Dugo, in Cross River State while allegedly attempting to take delivery of a large cache of ammunition.

The suspect was apprehended at Ivara Esu Estate in Odukpani Local Government Area following credible intelligence indicating plans to procure 832 rounds of live ammunition.

Security sources disclosed on Tuesday that the ammunition was allegedly supplied by another suspected gunrunner, Azenda Barnabas, popularly known as Jagaban, who is reportedly based in Aliade, Benue State.

“The operatives intercepted Dugo moments after he received the consignment, which was concealed in food items. Recovered were 832 rounds of ammunition and two empty AK-47 magazines,” the source revealed.

The arrest, according to the DSS, is part of ongoing nationwide operations aimed at combating the proliferation of illegal arms and dismantling gunrunning networks.

“The DSS has intensified its pursuit of such criminals, launching sustained operations across the federation. This successful operation underscores the agency’s commitment to curbing illegal arms trafficking and dismantling criminal syndicates,” the source added.

The development comes amid heightened efforts by security agencies to address the growing spread of illegal weapons across the country, a trend widely linked to rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence.

In recent months, the DSS has ramped up intelligence-driven operations targeting arms trafficking networks operating in various states, as part of broader measures to strengthen national security.