The Department of State Services (DSS) says it has intercepted a major shipment of illegal firearms allegedly transported from the Niger Republic into Nigeria through Sokoto State.

The operation, carried out in Dawakawa, Goronyo Local Government Area, reportedly led to the recovery of 21 AK-47 rifles, four PKT machine guns and 825 magazines.

According to the Service, the interception followed sustained intelligence surveillance targeting suspected arms traffickers operating within the area.

The operation forms part of efforts by security agencies to disrupt illegal weapons networks and prevent firearms from reaching criminal groups.

DSS Raises Concern Over Female Arms Couriers

The Service also raised concerns over the reported use of women as couriers in the transportation of illegal weapons.

It disclosed that 14 women had been arrested between February 2025 and November 2026 across several states over alleged involvement in arms trafficking activities.

In a recent operation in Zamfara State, security operatives reportedly arrested a suspected female courier who was allegedly found in possession of 12 grenades and two ammunition belts.

The development, according to the DSS, reflects changing methods adopted by suspected arms trafficking networks to move weapons across different locations.

Service Vows To Sustain Intelligence Operations

The DSS said it would continue intelligence-led operations aimed at identifying and dismantling illegal arms networks across the country.

The Service also reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting individuals found to be involved in the illegal possession, transportation and distribution of firearms and other prohibited weapons.

The latest interception comes amid ongoing security concerns over the movement of illegal arms across Nigeria’s borders and their potential supply to criminal groups.

The recovery of the weapons in Sokoto is expected to draw further attention to cross-border arms trafficking and the need for sustained cooperation among security agencies.