Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested a suspected gunrunner, Kelvin Ebikeniye Dugo, in a targeted operation at Ivara Esu Estate in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Security sources said the arrest followed credible intelligence indicating that Dugo planned to purchase a large consignment of live ammunition from another suspected arms dealer, Azenda Barnabas, also known as “Jagaban,” who is based in Aliade, Benue State.

According to the sources, DSS operatives intercepted Dugo shortly after he took delivery of the ammunition, which had been concealed inside food items.

“A total of 832 rounds of live ammunition and two empty AK-47 magazines were recovered during the operation,” the source disclosed.

The source noted that the arrest forms part of intensified efforts by the DSS to dismantle gunrunning networks and curb the proliferation of illegal arms across the country.

“The DSS has stepped up intelligence-driven operations targeting criminal elements involved in arms trafficking, with sustained actions being carried out across states of the federation,” the source said.

The successful operation, the source added, underscores the agency’s determination to disrupt illegal arms supply chains and strengthen national security.