DSS intercepts arms shipment from Niger Republic, seizes 21 AK-47 rifles in Sokoto

The DSS reportedly intercepted 21 AK-47 rifles, four PKT machine guns and 825 magazines smuggled from Niger Republic into Sokoto State, disrupting a suspected arms supply network linked to bandit activities in Nigeria’s North-West.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly intercepted a weapons consignment smuggled from Niger Republic into Sokoto State, recovering 21 AK-47 rifles, four PKT machine guns and 825 magazines.

According to TheCable, the operation took place on November 10 at Dawakawa, in Goronyo Local Government Area, following intelligence on suspected cross-border arms trafficking.

The suspected smugglers reportedly transported the weapons on camels through remote border routes to avoid security surveillance.

The consignment was believed to be intended for armed groups operating in Nigeria’s North-West, although the identities of its suppliers and intended recipients have not been publicly confirmed.

Security agencies are expected to investigate the shipment’s origins and trace those involved in transporting and financing it.

The report identified border communities in Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi as vulnerable to trafficking because of difficult terrain and informal trade routes.

The interception highlights concerns over illegal weapons entering Nigeria through poorly monitored border corridors and fuelling insecurity across the region.