DSS Intercepts Weapons Cache, Foils Terror Plot in Sokoto

The Department of State Services (DSS) has successfully foiled a major terror plot by intercepting a large cache of weapons smuggled from Niger Republic into Nigeria, aimed at disrupting the 2027 general elections, which are less than 70 days away. On November 12, DSS officers recovered 21 AK-47 rifles, four PKT machine guns, and 825 magazines in Dawakawa, Goronyo local government area of Sokoto state.

This seizure followed extensive surveillance of terror cells moving weapons across northern borders. A security source indicated that criminal networks have adapted their methods, now utilizing women and camels for weapon transport.

Additionally, Hafsat Umar was arrested in Talata Mafara with 12 grenades and two ammunition belts, allegedly sourced for a bandit leader, Saidu Marafa, in Zamfara state. Umar is the 14th female arms courier detained by the DSS since February 2025.

Previous arrests have occurred in various states, highlighting a concerning trend in the involvement of women in arms trafficking.