DSS ARRESTS SUSPECTED GUNRUNNER WITH 832 ROUNDS OF AMMUNITION IN CROSS RIVER

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

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

Dugo was apprehended at Ivara Esu Estate in Odukpani Local Government Area following credible intelligence on his plan to procure 832 rounds of live ammunition.

According to a statement on Tuesday, the ammunition was allegedly supplied by another suspected gunrunner, Azenda Barnabas, who is said to be based in Aliade.

A source disclosed that DSS operatives intercepted Dugo shortly after he received the consignment, which had been concealed in food items.

“Recovered from him were 832 rounds of ammunition and two empty AK-47 magazines,” the source said.

The source added that the arrest forms part of ongoing DSS operations aimed at curbing the proliferation of illegal arms and dismantling gunrunning networks across the country.

“The DSS has intensified its pursuit of criminal elements through sustained operations across the federation. This operation is one of several ongoing efforts, underscoring the Service’s commitment to dismantling gunrunning syndicates and curbing the spread of illegal arms,” the source stated.

The development comes amid renewed efforts by security agencies to tackle the proliferation of illicit arms, a trend widely linked to rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence nationwide.

In recent months, the DSS has stepped up intelligence-driven operations targeting suspected gunrunners and trafficking networks in multiple states.