Residents of Sapele have praised the Department of State Services (DSS) for its recent successful operation in Asaba, where a large cache of sophisticated arms and ammunition was intercepted.
They described the development as a major step forward in Delta State’s ongoing fight against insecurity.
Speaking with journalists in Sapele, some residents who asked not to be named for security reasons—commended the DSS for the successful operation. They also urged the agency to carry out similar intelligence-driven actions in Sapele and nearby communities, noting that such proactive efforts could help expose and shut down potential arms routes or criminal hideouts in the area.
The residents also applauded the DSS officers currently deployed in Sapele and nearby areas for their role in maintaining relative peace in the town. However, they emphasized that more needs to be done—especially in tracking suspicious movements and identifying those who may be supporting or sheltering criminal elements.
They pointed to the recent arms seizure in Asaba as a warning sign, urging security agencies to step up surveillance in Sapele and surrounding communities to prevent illegal arms networks from taking root in the region.
In addition, they called on the DSS and other security bodies to take firm action against individuals who intimidate or harass law-abiding citizens, warning that such behavior could fuel communal unrest and threaten national security. “Some people act like they’re above the law,” one resident said. “The government needs to step in now, before things spiral out of control.”
The residents also praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for swiftly directing security agencies to step up their efforts across Delta State and ensure that those involved in violence or arms trafficking are held accountable.
They called for stronger collaboration between the DSS, the police, and other security bodies, particularly in intelligence sharing and surveillance, to better protect lives and property. According to them, maintaining peace and stability in Delta State is crucial for ongoing economic development and building investor confidence.
Reaffirming their willingness to assist security agencies, the residents emphasized the importance of sharing timely information, noting that “security is everyone’s responsibility.” They added that true and lasting peace can only be achieved when justice is served and the law is enforced fairly for all.
