The Ijaw Youths Network (IYN) has applauded the Department of State Services (DSS) for its successful interception of 57 AK-47 rifles, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and the arrest of a Delta-born UK Army Major and other suspects allegedly involved in an arms trafficking ring in Delta State.

In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Frank Ebikabo, and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, the IYN described the DSS operation as a “timely and patriotic intervention” that averted a potential outbreak of violence in Warri and its environs.

“This courageous and professional action by the DSS has restored public confidence in the nation’s security architecture. What has been forestalled is a sinister attempt to unleash inter-ethnic bloodshed in Delta,” the group said.

The IYN warned that the seizure of such a large cache of weapons, including 57 assault rifles, suggests a plot to destabilize the region, possibly linked to grievances over the ongoing ward delineation process in Warri Federal Constituency.

The group commended the Director-General of the DSS, Mr. Adeola Ajayi, for the intelligence-led operation and urged a thorough probe into the individuals and networks behind the foiled arms deal.

“We insist that those behind this crime, including the UK Army Major, must be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent. No disagreement, no matter how contentious, justifies a return to the era of ethnic violence in Warri,” the statement added.

IYN also called on the British High Commission in Nigeria to act swiftly on a petition it submitted concerning the involvement of the UK-based officer, insisting that his actions “are inimical to the image of the UK military.”

“We expect the UK Government to clarify the status of the said Major and cooperate with Nigerian authorities to bring him to justice,” the group said.

In the same vein, a coalition of civil society organizations has also written to the British High Commissioner in Nigeria, calling for joint efforts between the British and Nigerian governments to investigate the accused officer.

The letter, dated April 28, 2025, was jointly signed by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel (Leader), Zekeri Momoh-Saliu (Secretary), Mohammed Idris, and Hugo Okafor, with endorsements from groups including the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, Coalition for Democratic Watchdogs, and Initiative for Voter Awareness and Electoral Reforms.

The coalition described the incident as “a serious threat to Nigeria’s internal security” and urged international cooperation to ensure accountability and prevent further escalation.

Both the IYN and civil society groups urged the people of Warri—Ijaws, Urhobo, and Itsekiri—to reject those who may exploit ethnic divisions for political gain, and to embrace peace and dialogue as the only viable path forward.