DSS arrests Army Officer for planning unrest in Delta

Operatives of the Department of State Service have uncovered and foiled an alleged plot to instigate unrest in Warri, Delta State, leading to the arrest of a foreign-based Army major, and several others allegedly involved in the plan.

According to sources familiar with the operation, the Army officer, of Itsekiri origin, was allegedly recruited by one Collins to procure weapons and ammunition intended to fuel tribal tensions in the oil-rich region.

An insider disclosed on Friday night that the DSS operatives from the Delta Command apprehended the arms supplier during a covert operation near Asaba, Delta State.

During the operation, DSS seized over 50 AK-47 rifles, six pump-action shotguns, and more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition, according to the insider.

“All suspects are now in DSS custody. The DSS will carry out a full and transparent investigation and hold anyone found plotting tribal conflicts to account.’

It was further gathered that a traditional ruler is also being discreetly investigated in connection with the matter.

Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the authorities proved abortive as of press time.

The arrests come amid tensions following the rejection of the ward delineation in Delta State by the Itsekiri Nation.

The Itsekiri people had threatened to take legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission if the delineation exercise proceeded.

On April 7, it was reported that one person was killed and houses were razed in a crisis that ensued as a result of the INEC’s delineation of constituencies.

The incident reportedly occurred on Odion Road in the Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

In response, soldiers, police officers, and other security operatives were deployed to the area to prevent a further breakdown of law and order.