SOKOTO: DSS Seizes 21 Ak-47 Rifles, Four PKT Machine Guns In Cross-border Arms Bust
The Department of State Services (DSS) has foiled an alleged arms smuggling operation from Niger Republic into Nigeria, recovering 21 AK-47 rifles, four PKT machine guns and 825 magazines in Sokoto State.
The weapons were intercepted on November 10 at Dawakawa, Goronyo Local Government Area of the state, following an operation targeting suspected arms traffickers supplying weapons to bandits in the North-West.
According to reports, the suspected smugglers allegedly deployed camels to move the deadly consignment through remote border communities to avoid detection by security operatives.
The seizure is considered a significant disruption to suspected arms supply channels serving criminal groups operating across the North-West.
Investigations are expected to focus on uncovering the wider network responsible for the shipment, particularly those financing the operation, supplying the weapons and coordinating their transportation to intended beneficiaries.
Security concerns remain high along several border communities and trafficking routes, particularly Illela, Sabon Birni, Isa, Gudu and Tangaza in Sokoto; Jibia, Kaita, Mai’Adua and Kongolam in Katsina; Zurmi and Shinkafi in Zamfara; and Kamba and Arewa Dandi in Kebbi State.
The difficult terrain, porous border points and informal commercial activities in these areas reportedly make it easier for criminal networks to move weapons and other illicit materials across national boundaries.
Groups such as armed bandits, Lakurawa and Boko Haram have also been linked to security threats across parts of the region.
The latest interception has renewed calls for improved border surveillance, stronger intelligence cooperation and sustained security operations to dismantle the networks facilitating illegal arms trafficking.
Security experts have emphasised the importance of identifying and prosecuting the major financiers and suppliers behind these operations to achieve lasting success in the fight against insecurity.
