The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the detention of one Zainab Sodiq at its National Headquarters, Abuja over alleged drone permit violations.
DSS, in a statement on Thursday by its Deputy Director, Public Relations and Communications, Favour Dozie, explained that Zainab was intercepted by FAAN AVSEC and its operatives at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos on July 6, 2026 with an Unmaned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) enroute Abuja from MMIA border control without an ‘End User Certificate’ (EUC).
Noting that, in compliance with National Security Adviser (NSA), Extant Regulations, which placed restrictions on acquisition and use of drones, Sodiq was intercepted while trying to board a flight to Abuja.
It said when confronted, she admitted to not being in possession of the required documents, however, following due process, Sodiq was allowed to board her scheduled flight in view of a prior engagement in Abuja. However, she was directed to report on Wednesday, 8 July, for the continuation of the investigation.
DSS said in further compliance with the National Security Adviser (NSA) extant rules which conveys on the Service, powers to impound and sanction any individual or cooperate entity operating Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS)/Drones in any part of the country without authorization, the Service has commenced investigation.
This action, it said, was necessitated by global and domestic security concerns associated with operation of drones, especially issues of privacy breaches and safety of individuals.
The Service repaid it remains committed to professionalism and adherence to Rule of Law.
