Top of PageGun Policy News
Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
Germany,Nigeria,China,United States,United Kingdom
Former Doyen of UK Gun Lobby Pleads Guilty to More Gunrunning
17 May 2013
Democrat and Chronicle (USA)
British arms dealer Gary Hyde has admitted helping smuggle illegal AK-47 magazines into the United States for sale by a Chili-based firearms wholesaler, federal court records show.
Hyde signed a plea agreement in late April but it was not filed until this week, records show.
Hyde admitted that he had helped alter the markings on the 5,760 magazines so their country of origin — China — would not be known. In the U.S., there is a federal ban on the importation of... (GunPolicy.org)
Iranian Jailed for Illegal Arms Importation into Nigeria
14 May 2013
This Day (Lagos)
Justice Okechukwu Okeke of the Federal High Court in Lagos monday sentenced an Iranian national, Azim Aghajani, and his Nigerian counterpart, Ali Jega, to 17 years imprisonment each for their involvement in the importation of firearms into Nigeria.
Justice Okeke while delivering his judgment, held that he was not in doubt that the 13 containers loaded with arms were imported into the country, contrary to the claim by the accused persons that the containers contained... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Confirm 1 Million Illegal Guns in Nigeria
9 May 2013
Daily Newswatch (Nigeria)
Against the backdrop of mounting security challenges in Nigeria arising from the Boko Haram insurgency and ethno-religious crisis in the north as well as armed robbery and kidnapping in the south, it has been estimated that there are about one million illegally held guns in the country in civilian hands. The market price for most popular of them all, the AK-47 pattern of assault weapon, goes for $180 (about N27,000). While the total number of guns in the hands of... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Uncover 3 Gun Factories
13 April 2013
Daily Trust (Abuja)
ASABA — Police detectives from Anambra and Delta States have uncovered arms factories in three communities in Delta State.
This is just as residents of Alizomor in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State fled the community after the corpse of ex-Anambra deputy governor Dr. Nwike Chidi was found in the area.
Police spokesman ASP Lucky Uyabeme said the discovery came when detectives stormed the community. He, however, said no arrest has been made.
The body of... (GunPolicy.org)
Activist Urges Nigeria Federal Govt to Commence Small Arms Buyback
20 March 2013
Daily Times (Nigeria)
An Onitsha-based activist, Mr Emeka Umeagbalasi, has urged the Federal Government to commence arms and ammunition buy-back in the country.
Umeagbalasi, Chairman, International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, made the call in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Tuesday.
He said that the Federal Government should come out with a policy to exchange these small arms surrendered by anyone with money.
Umeagbalasi was reacting to the alleged proliferation of small... (GunPolicy.org)
39,880 Militants' Firearms, Ammunition Handed Over to Nigerian Army
17 March 2013
Vanguard (Lagos)
ENUGU — The 39,880 assorted firearms and ammunition recovered from former militants in the Niger Delta by the inter-agency taskforce set up by the Federal Government have been handed over to the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army.
A breakdown of the arms handed over on Saturday at the 82 Division's parade ground included the following: 482 automatic arms, 20,132 ammunition, 295 magazines and 18,971 locally made guns.
The General Officer Commanding the 82 Division... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Arrest Alleged Arms Supplier in Delta
15 March 2013
Vanguard (Lagos)
WARRI — Police have arrested a community leader, who allegedly armed youths from Orugbene community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State with weapons, including guns and cutlasses, to attack villagers in Asenkiri, a neighbouring community, and forcefully seized their motor-saws and other equipment, penultimate week.
The alleged arms supplier was nabbed following investigations by security agencies into the incident.
An Oborotu community leader, Chief Evans... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia,Nigeria,Madagascar,Guinea
Nigeria Charges Russian 'Gun Dealers' for Smuggling
19 February 2013
BBC News
Fifteen Russian sailors have been charged in a court in Nigeria's main city, Lagos, with illegally bringing weapons into the country.
The crew of the MV Myre Seadiver were denied bail by the High Court, pending a final ruling on Monday.
The Nigerian navy had seized the ship, owned by Moscow-based security firm Moran, last October.
Moran has said the ship had permission to carry arms and had stopped in Lagos to change crew.
The vessel had been travelling from... (GunPolicy.org)
Ghanaian, Nigerian Suspects Caught Allegedly Smuggling Guns
30 January 2013
This Day (Lagos)
It was a perfect façade, so they thought. Who could have suspected that a couple riding in a neat-looking Mercedes Benz car was not what they pretended to be. To an ordinary onlooker, they were mere international travellers, perhaps heading to Nigeria on a pleasure or a business trip.
However, the vigilance of a police patrol team uncovered their evil intention. The duo of Mr. Daniel Ofori, a Ghanaian and his Nigerian counterpart, Ms. Olufumolayo Adeyemo, were nothing... (GunPolicy.org)
Czech Republic,Hungary,Côte d'Ivoire,Iran,Guinea,Niger,Russia,South Sudan,China,Uganda,Afghanistan,Nigeria,Kenya,Iraq,Congo (DRC)
Trail of Bullet Casings Leads From Africa's Wars Back to Iran
11 January 2013
New York Times
The first clues appeared in Kenya, Uganda and what is now South Sudan. A British arms researcher surveying ammunition used by government forces and civilian militias in 2006 found Kalashnikov rifle cartridges he had not seen before. The ammunition bore no factory code, suggesting that its manufacturer hoped to avoid detection.
Within two years other researchers were finding identical cartridges circulating through the ethnic violence in Darfur. Similar ammunition then... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia Asks Nigeria to Release Alleged Gun, Ammo Smugglers
10 January 2013
This Day (Lagos)
The Russian government Wednesday called for the immediate release of the 15 sailors arrested by the Nigerian Navy for allegedly smuggling arms into the country.
Nigerian authorities intercepted a ship and arrested its Russian crew on October 23 last year after they found 14 AK-47 rifles guns and 8,500 rounds of ammunition on board.
The Russian Foreign Ministry said the sailors were facing a court case initiated "under false pretexts" and that Nigeria broke a promise... (GunPolicy.org)
UK Gun Dealer Jailed for Unlicenced International Weapons Trading
5 December 2012
New York Times / Associated Press
LONDON — A British arms dealer who helped ship thousands of assault rifles and millions of rounds of ammunition from China to Nigeria has been sentenced to seven years in jail.
Gary Hyde was convicted on two counts of breaching U.K. trade controls and concealing criminal property for moving the weapons without a license and hiding more than 620,000 pounds ($1 million) in commission payments.
While the 2006 deal between the Chinese and Nigerian governments was... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria NGOs Blame Illegal Guns for High Crime Rate
9 November 2012
Leadership (Abuja)
A rights group, International Society For Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, Intersociety has stated that illicit small arms circulating in the country is responsible for the high rate of crime.
The group in a press release made available to LEADERSHIP in Awka said that over 300,000 illicit small arms are circulating in the wrong hands in Anambra State, and that this represent six percent of the entire illicit small arms in circulation in the country.
The release... (GunPolicy.org)
Authorities Catch Gun Runners in Nigeria with Assault Weapons
5 November 2012
Daily Trust (Abuja)
LAFIA — A syndicate of gun runners, led by a native doctor, Daniel Danladi, have been nabbed by a team of men of the State Security Service (SSS) in Nasarawa State.
The team also also recovered three AK47 rifles and a sub-machine gun.
Abubakar Bubuche, state director of the security agency, who paraded the five suspects at the directorate's office in Lafia, on Tuesday afternoon, said charms, as well as 48 rounds of ammunition, were also recovered from the suspects... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Debates Relaxing Gun Laws for Civilians as Crime Rate Escalates
4 November 2012
Leadership (Abuja), Opinion
The rising case of insecurity in the country has given room for many debates, one of which included the creation of state police to tackle the spate of general insecurity in the country. However, the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) added a new twist to the whole debate when it recently called the Federal Government to consider the relaxation of gun ownership laws as a way to reduce crime. In other words, he wanted more private citizens to have access to guns. Michael... (GunPolicy.org)
UK Man Jailed for Smuggling Weapons, Ammo to Nigeria
27 October 2012
Daily Trust (Abuja)
LONDON — A London court yesterday convicted a British arms dealer of organising a big illegal shipment of weapons to Nigeria.
Gary Hyde, a 43-year-old retired British volunteer police constable, was found guilty of helping to organise illegal shipment of 40,000 AK47 assault rifles, 30,000 rifles, 10,000 pistols and 32 million rounds of ammunition from China to Nigeria.
He was convicted by a jury and will be sentenced on 23 November at the Southwark Crown Court, the... (GunPolicy.org)
Call for Harsher Penalties, Enforcement for Gun Crime in Nigeria
8 October 2012
Leadership (Abuja), Opinion
Let us all first agree that the number of illegal arms in free circulation in Nigeria is permissible only in a state of anarchy. I don't think anyone, including the president himself, should have any problem agreeing with that. If what happened at the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, last week, does not become a frightening wake-up call to Nigerians and their leaders, then, it must be true that the country is jinxed.
If I were Jonathan, I would be very worried because what... (GunPolicy.org)
46 Believed Shot Dead in Nigeria Massacre, Police Seize Bombs Nearby
3 October 2012
This Day (Lagos)
It was a black Independence Day celebration for the inhabitants of Mubi town, Adamawa State, as unknown gunmen, suspected to be members of Boko Haram, massacred at least 46 persons, mostly students of three tertiary institutions in the town, on Monday night.
At least three others were confirmed killed over the weekend in Bauchi State in the ongoing reprisals in Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area.
Although the official casualty figure in the Mubi killing was put at... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Catch Smuggling Gang, Seize Assault Weapons, Ammo
26 September 2012
Leadership (Abuja)
Nemesis has finally caught up with three suspected robbers, who specialise in inter-state gun running as they were paraded by the Lagos State police command yesterday.
Speaking with journalists at the command headquarters in Ikeja, Manko Abubakar Umar, Lagos State police commissioner said that on September 23, officer in-charge of Lagos State Anti-Robbery Squad SARS, Abba Kyari received information that one Uche Okeagbu was arrested by the police around IIlemba Hausa... (GunPolicy.org)
Germany to Provide €500,000 to Combat Illegal Small Arms in Nigeria
19 September 2012
Vanguard (Lagos)
The Federal Republic of Germany has disclosed that it will provide 500,000 euros to finance projects implemented by the newly established United Nation (UN) fund to combat illegal small arms.
This is disclosed at the just concluded review conference on the programme of action on small arms and light weapons, the United Nations member states confirmed their commitment to fight illegal arms trading and to protect children in armed conflict.
Speaking on progress of UN... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Authorities Seize Assault Weapons, Over 1,000 Bullets from Sect
13 September 2012
This Day (Lagos)
Operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Borno State Wednesday arrested 11 suspected members of the Boko Haram sect in an overnight raid.
The suspects were arrested in the Waka-Biu region of the state.
Recovered from them were automatic weapons, ammunition and several homemade bombs.
Confirming the arrest, the spokesman of the JTF, Lieutenant Colonel Sagir Musa, listed the dangerous weapons recovered from the sect to include a sub-machine gun, seven AK-47s, 1,568... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Doctors Call for More Liberal Gun Ownership
6 September 2012
Daily Trust (Abuja)
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) yesterday called for government to liberalise policy on gun ownership in efforts to stem violent attacks on citizens.
Speaking at a press conference, NMA president, Dr Osahon Enabulele, said "in view of psychological fear factor among criminals or vandals, liberal gun ownership will curb criminality among hoodlums."
He refuted observations that the call for more liberal policies on arms ownership was a "call for anarchy"... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Authorities Say Over 1,000 AK-47 Rifles in Illegal Circulation
24 August 2012
Vanguard (Lagos)
The Commissioner of Police in Kogi, Mr Mohammed Katsina, said on Friday that more than 1,000 AK 47 rifles were among the dangerous weapons believed to be in circulation in Okene and its environs.
He said this in Lokoja while parading some suspects, including a man in whose possession two AK 47 rifles, belonging to two soldiers killed in Okene on Aug. 7, were found.
Katsina said that politicians and clan heads were responsible for the massive illegal circulation of... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Find Assault Weapons in Parked Car
20 August 2012
Daily Trust (Abuja)
LOKOJA — The police in Kogi state yesterday recovered a parked Honda car containing 6 AK-47 rifles and eleven fully loaded magazines at a location in Oboroke Ihima in Okehi Local government area.
A source told our reporter that a woman selling recharge cards by the road side close to where the vehicle was parked suspicious of the presence of the vehicle there.
It was gathered that when a man came to move the car the woman alerted residents and the traditional ruler,... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Arrest Eight over Spate of Gun Deaths, Armed Crimes
18 August 2012
Vanguard (Lagos)
When a 9-year-old Aminat Lateef was murdered in December 2010, during a violent clash between factions of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, in the Mushin area of Lagos State, her parents and siblings thought they would never get justice for her death, against the backdrop of past experiences.
But the reverse is the case now, as operatives of the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad, FSARS, following a directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr... (GunPolicy.org)
More Enforcement Needed to End Gun Trafficking in Nigeria
7 August 2012
Leadership (Abuja), Editorial
The chief of army standards and evaluation, Major-General Shehu Abdulkadir, at a recent Ramadan lecture said that 70 per cent of the 10 million illegal weapons in circulation in West Africa are in Nigeria. He was piqued at the worrisome development which he admitted is stressing the military and other law enforcement agencies. Globally, about 500 million illicit weapons are in circulation; 100 million of these are in sub-Saharan Africa, with about 10 million... (GunPolicy.org)
Gunman Kill 16 at Nigerian Church as Week of Violence Continues
7 August 2012
This Day (Lagos)
Gunmen numbering about 10 last night stormed the Deeper Life Bible Church at Otite in Adavi Local Government Council of Kogi State, killing about 16 worshippers in the process.
The attack is coming on the heels of a similar one in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital on Sunday night, where four people were feared killed in their homes by suspected members of the Boko Haram sect.
Also, some unidentified gunmen Monday attacked a police station in Shagari Local Government... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Customs Controller Arrested for Buying Ammo from Niger Police
14 June 2012
This Day (Lagos)
A serving Comptroller of Customs, Mr. Jack Bot, has been arrested for gun running.
Bot and his orderly, Mr. Shehu Ahmed, were arrested by men of the State Security Service (SSS) at Customs Headquarters, Wuse, Abuja, for allegedly buying ammunitions from the Niger State Police command.
Two police officers were also arrested for their alleged involvement in supplying arms and ammunition to armed robbers. It was gathered that the information provided those earlier... (GunPolicy.org)
Police, Customs Officers Said Supplying Guns to Nigerian Criminals
4 June 2012
Nation (Nigeria)
Two police inspectors and a Customs inspector (names withheld) are now being held by the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Louis Edet House, Force Headquarters, Abuja. They allegedly supplied arms and ammunition to armed robbers.
The arrests of the officers were effected, following the arrests of some armed robbers in Abuja, who confessed getting their arms and ammunition from the Customs official attached to the Niger State command.
The confession, our... (GunPolicy.org)
Trailer Loaded with Dangerous Arms, Ammunition Intercepted in Nigeria
31 May 2012
Vanguard (Lagos)
AWKA — The Anambra State branch of Importers Association of Nigeria and the National Task Force against illegal importation of firearms and ammunition said yesterday that they had intercepted a trailer load of dangerous arms and ammunition in the commercial city of Onitsha.
Briefing newmen, Chairman of the Association, Chief Emma Nwosu, said the weapons had been handed over to the police, explaining that in view of the development, the association was re-strategizing... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Customs Import 5,000 AK-47 Rifles to Tackle Gun Smuggling
18 April 2012
Leadership (Abuja)
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has said that it has imported about 5,000 AK-47 assault rifles and two helicopters to be used in tackling proliferation of small arms by smugglers across the country's porous borders.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Abdullahi Dikko Inde, who disclosed this while speaking to State House Correspondents at the Presidential Villa in Abuja yesterday also said that Customs had purchase 400 units of Toyota Hilux vehicles approved by... (GunPolicy.org)
Hoodlums Attack Police Station in Nigeria, Steal 14 AK-47 Rifles
5 April 2012
Vanguard (Lagos)
AWKA — Gunmen,numbering seven yesterday, attacked Amichi police station in Nnewi South Local Government Area and injured a police officer in the process. About 10 vehicles packed within and around the police premises were also riddled with bullets.
The hoodlums were said to have stormed the police station at about 2.30 am and after sporadic shooting, released two suspects believed to be their members and also allegedly made away with 14 AK-47 riffles belonging to the... (GunPolicy.org)
Mexico,Australia,Brazil,Nigeria,Canada
Canada Changed Its Arms Policy, Chose UN Delegate to Suit Gun Lobby
21 March 2012
CBC News (Canada)
The office of Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird ordered last-minute changes to Canada's position on an international arms treaty, as well as to its delegation to meetings at United Nations headquarters, CBC News has learned.
According to documents obtained under the Access to Information Act, the minister's office ignored advice from the department and ordered civil servants to invite Steve Torino, president of the Canadian Shooting Sports Association (CSSA), to... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Trained on Firearm Handling after Spate of Extra Judicial Killings
19 March 2012
Vanguard (Lagos)
The Nigeria Police Force has begun capacity building with particular reference to handling of arms by policemen, following spate of extra judicial killings across the country.
To this end, 5,000 policemen have concluded the first batch of training on when and how to use the firearms.
This came as the Federal Government has concluded plans to provide the Nigeria Police Force with enough patrol vehicles, with a view to carrying out surveillance on Nigerian roads,... (GunPolicy.org)
Philippines,Trinidad & Tobago,Zimbabwe,Zambia,Uganda,Tanzania,Senegal,Congo (DRC),Pakistan,Nigeria,Niger,Namibia,Morocco,Mauritania,Malawi,Madagascar,Côte d'Ivoire,Burkina Faso,Botswana,Egypt,Angola,Algeria,South Africa,Ghana,China,United States,Austria,Russia,Israel,Bahrain,Asia,Africa,Brazil
Brazil Arms Exports: Country Preaches Peace, Sells Tons of Arms
28 February 2012
Huffington Post (USA)
A small, scratched metal can thrown on the ground created Brazil's first diplomatic embarrassment of 2012. The canister of tear gas had been collected by pro-democracy activists in Bahrain. Stamped across the can in blue was a Brazilian flag and the words 'MADE IN BRAZIL.'
One year had passed since Bahrain became the stage for pro-democracy protests by the majority Shiites against the Sunni monarchy commanded by king Hamad bin-Isa Khalifa. The protesters had been... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Arrest Nigerian 'AK-47' Manufacturer, Seize Assault Rifles, Pistols
14 February 2012
Vanguard (Lagos)
MAKURDI — Two months of renewed onslaught against criminals and violent crimes across Benue State by the new Commissioner of Police in charge of the state, Mr. John Haruna has yielded an unprecedented results with the avalanche of arrests of men of the underworld in parts of the state.
The frontal measure against criminals in the State culminated in the arrest of 620 suspects most of who were apprehended with lethal weapons and sophisticated arms and ammunition.
In... (GunPolicy.org)
Germany,United Kingdom,China,Nigeria
British and German Arms Dealers Involved in Arms Shipment to Nigeria
8 February 2012
Daily Trust (Abuja)
British prosecutors recently vowed to pursue a legal case involving the shipment of large cache of weapons, allegedly from China and destined for Nigeria, after a London judge threw it out.
Those involved in the trade are said to be British and German arms dealers. Mr Gary Hyde, a 42-year old retired British volunteer police officer, is accused of conspiring with his German business partner Karl Kleber for the illegal shipment of 40,000 Ak47 assault rifles, 30,000... (GunPolicy.org)
China,United States,Ghana,Nigeria
Nigerian Civilians Hold 2 Million Guns, Security Forces 600,000
30 January 2012
Nation (Nigeria)
Members of the dreaded insurgent group, Boko Haram, armed robbers and hired assassins have done great havoc with guns acquired illegally. Where are they coming from? OLUKAYODE THOMAS and JOKE KUJENYA examine the sources of illegal arms into the country.
The ruins are still visible on the police zonal headquatres in Kano. The offices of the State Security Service (SSS) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) testify to the Boko Haram bombing and armed assaults of... (GunPolicy.org)
Madagascar,Guinea,Ghana,Botswana,Angola,Algeria,South Africa,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,Russia,Austria,Israel,Germany,Italy,United States,Yemen,Philippines,Pakistan,Sri Lanka,Tunisia,Brazil,Burkina Faso,Egypt,Côte d'Ivoire,Malawi,Mauritania,Morocco,Namibia,Niger,Nigeria,Congo (ROC),Senegal,Tanzania,Uganda,Zambia,Zimbabwe,Argentina,Ecuador
Brazilian Gun Industry Seeks New Markets: Africa and Asia [Portugues]
27 January 2012
Publica (Brazil)
[Translated summary: With the support of the Ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs, Brazilian gun manufacturers seek new markets in countries with a history of human rights violations: Tunisia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Philippines and Yemen. Brazil is among the six countries in the world with annual exports exceeding $ 100 million, according to recent research from Small Arms Survey. According to the Army, responsible for supervising and controlling exports from 2005 to... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Arms Importation, a Threat to Nigeria's Existence
23 January 2012
Nation (Nigeria), Editorial
A critical factor fuelling the alarming state of insecurity in Nigeria today is the dangerously large number of illegal arms circulating throughout the country. It is with these illegal weapons that sundry criminal elements have unleashed an unprecedented orgy of violence in recent times. In carrying out their dastardly acts, armed robbers, kidnappers, aggrieved militants, perpetrators of ethno-regional and communal conflagration, religious (Boko Haram) zealots,... (GunPolicy.org)
Availability of Guns Highlights Critical Need for Nigeria to Tighten Gun Control
19 January 2012
Daily Trust (Abuja), Opinion
The recent detection and confiscation of Nigeria-bound cache of arms by the Ghanaian Police Service in Accra brings into focus the danger of illegal firearms in Nigeria.
The lorry load of weapons destined for Nigeria highlights a critical need for the Nigerian authorities to be more vigilant in enforcement of gun control laws. While Boko Haram bombings, communal killings and economic problems are taking centre stage, the onslaught of murderous bank robberies, killing... (GunPolicy.org)
Ghana Police Seized Arms and Ammunition Being Smuggled to Nigeria
12 January 2012
Daily Trust (Abuja)
ACCRA, Ghana — The Ghana Police Service says it impounded on Tuesday a lorry load of arms and ammunitions in Achimota, Accra, allegedly being smuggled to Nigeria from the country.
The police command, acting on a tip-off by a resident in the area, affirmed that five persons - three Ghanaians and two Nigerians - were arrested in connection with the crime.
The suspects, Sunday Eze, Samuel Taiwo and two others. are currently in police custody and assisting the Command... (GunPolicy.org)
Germany,Poland,Nigeria,China,United Kingdom
UK Arms Dealer Arranged to Sell 80,000 Chinese Guns to Nigeria - Court
10 January 2012
BBC News
A British-based arms dealer helped organise the shipment of thousands of guns from China to Nigeria without the necessary licence, a court has heard.
Gary Hyde partly arranged and organised the shipment in 2007 of 80,000 rifles and pistols and 32 million rounds of ammunition.
Southwark Crown Court heard he did not receive permission from the relevant government department.
Mr Hyde, from Derwent near York, denies the charges.
The court was told the shipment involved... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian President Raises Alarm Over Small Arms Proliferation
9 December 2011
Vanguard (Lagos)
ABUJA - President Goodluck Jonathan, Thursday, expressed worry that the growing proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country was contributing to the present insecurity situation.
He tasked Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, to do more in stemming the menace.
The President, however, commended NCS for the remarkable successes recorded in the seizures of all types of arms being smuggled through the borders. He urged them to continue to play their role in... (GunPolicy.org)
Russia,Mozambique,Nigeria,India,Australia,East Africa,Eastern Europe,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa
Global: Unplanned Explosions at Munitions Dumps Increasing - IRIN / SAS
5 December 2011
IRIN (UN News)
JOHANNESBURG - The rate of accidents at munitions storage sites has risen to unprecedented levels in 2011, despite a growing international commitment to assist countries in managing their weapons and ammunition stockpiles.
"During the first ten months of 2011, the average number of explosions has increased to more than three per month - the highest rate recorded in a calendar year," said the Small Arms Survey (SAS), a Geneva-based NGO monitoring small arms and armed... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Bosses Arrested in Nigeria for Renting Guns, Ammunition to Robbers
1 December 2011
Vanguard (Lagos)
YOLA — Adamawa State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three police officers, including an Assistant Superintendent, ASP, and two inspectors for allegedly renting arms and ammunition from the police armoury to robbers, as exclusively reported by Vanguard a fortnight ago.
They were alleged to have stolen different categories of arms and ammunition which they gave to robbers for certain amount of money for every operation they reportedly carried out.
At a... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Officers Dismissed Over Gun Diversion, Illegal Sale in Nigeria
30 November 2011
Daily Trust (Abuja)
YOLA — Adamawa State Police Command has confirmed that a retired Assistant Superintendent of Police and two Inspectors were arrested in connection with illegal sale and distribution of arms and ammunition to criminals in the state.
The retired armourer, ASP Abuna Mainasara, Inspector Daniel Eliphas and Inspector Abubakar Hali would soon be charged to court for gun running. Already the two serving inspectors have been dismissed from the force.
Speaking to newsmen... (GunPolicy.org)
Alleged Gun Dealer, Illegal Firearm Manufacturer Charged in Nigeria
10 November 2011
This Day (Lagos)
The Nigerian Police Command in Bauchi State has arrested one Gambo Mohammed and his collaborator, Alhassan Mohammed, for allegedly manufacturing of illegal firearms and ammunitions.
The state Police Commissioner, Mr. Ikechukwu Aduba, who disclosed this to newsmen in his office, yesterday, said the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) recovered from the suspects two firearms, ammunition fabricating apparatus, one oxygen gas cylinder, corrugated local implements for... (GunPolicy.org)
Rate of Firearm Proliferation in Nigeria Calls for a Review of Firearms Act
3 November 2011
Daily Trust (Abuja)
The House of Representatives yesterday moved to stop the proliferation of firearms in Nigeria by considering a bill seeking to repeal and re-enact the Firearms Act Number 32, 1959.
The bill also seeks to prescribe more stringent and modern ways of firearms control.
Rep Umar Adam Katsayal (CPC, Katsina), who sponsored the bill, said the rate of fire arms proliferation in the country was alarming and poses serious threat to public peace.
He said the firearms Act... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Forces Search Borno Homes for Illicit Firearms after End of Amnesty
3 November 2011
Reuters
MAIDUGURI - Nigerian security forces have started door-to-door searches for weapons in northeast Borno state after an arms amnesty for Islamist militants expired on October 31, a spokesman said on Wednesday.
Colonel Mohammed Hassan, spokesman for the Joint Military Taskforce in Borno, said the measure was aimed at curbing violence in the state, which is suffering almost daily gun attacks and frequent bombings by the militant group Boko Haram.
"We have commenced... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Urges International Community to Tackle Proliferation of Illicit Arms
27 October 2011
Africa Report (Jeune Afrique)
Lawrence Olefumi Obisakin, a senior director in Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs told a United Nations General Assembly committee responsible for disarmament and international security that it was time the international community tackled the proliferation of illicit arms.
"We expect no less of a treaty which provides the legal basis for international trade in conventional weapons," he said.
"The government of Nigeria is deeply concerned at the magnitude of human... (GunPolicy.org)
After Spate of Killings, Nigeria Urges Borno Residents to Surrender Guns
18 October 2011
Daily Trust (Abuja)
MAIDUGURI — Worried by the spate of killings in various parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State Capital, the Joint Task Force (JTF) yesterday asked residents to either surrender their arms or face the wrath of the law.
It said all arms acquired illegally must be returned on or before October 31, 2011.
In a statement by its head of field operations, Colonel Victor Ebhaleme, the JTF said some people had illegally acquired firearms and stockpiled them in their... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,Bahrain,Saudi Arabia,United Kingdom
UN Estimate: 1 to 3 Million Automatic Guns in Civilian Hands in Nigeria
17 September 2011
Next (Nigeria), Opinion
Arms manufacturers and dealers are delighted when a new conflict breaks out.
Desert Storm was a fantastic business opportunity for arms manufacturers. Every round shot through the barrel of a gun was another "ching-ching" in the cash register.
They are not the only ones that benefit through conflict. The likes of Halliburton rejoice with every airstrike and artillery shell that destroys a building or some part of national infrastructure in a foreign country. Every bit... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Gun Amnesty Programme 2 Years Later: A 'Huge Success'
4 August 2011
Daily Champion (Lagos)
When former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua approved the implementation of the Niger Delta Amnesty programme two years ago, he, most likely, would not have imagined that it would become the huge success that it presently has become.
At the time he made the historic move, the Niger Delta region was, literally, a war zone. Militant youths, armed with sophisticated weapons controlled different parts of the states of the region, killing, maiming or kidnapping people,... (GunPolicy.org)
West African Police Chiefs Agreed to Focus on Small Arms Trafficking
19 July 2011
Nigerian Observer
ABUJA - The West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO) is to conduct joint security operations for safer and more secure sub-region, according to a statement by the Commission.
The statement, made available to newsmen in Abuja stated that it was part of commitments made at the just-concluded meeting of the technical sub-committees of WAPCCO in Conakry, Guinea.
The chiefs agreed to focus on trafficking in small arms and light weapons as a priority for the first... (GunPolicy.org)
Ghana,Nigeria,Côte d'Ivoire,Libya,West Africa
West Africa Faces Spiral of Gun Running, Mercenaries and Armed Violence
3 July 2011
Daily Sun (Nigeria), Editorial
The alert by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on trafficking in arms and mercenaries in the sub region deserves urgent attention.
This is more so as it has been reported that the increasing shootings and bombings in the Northern part of the country have cross border influences. The ECOWAS intelligence report revealed that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in West Africa is the fallout of the ongoing crisis in Libya and the recent... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Parade 48 Suspected Armed Robbers, Seize 10 AK-47s
16 June 2011
Vanguard (Lagos)
BENIN — The Edo State Security Service, SSS, and the State Police Command, Tuesday, paraded 48 suspected armed robbers and kidnappers, recovering N7.7million and cache of ammunitions with them.
Among the suspected kidnappers paraded were persons alleged to be involved in the abduction of the father-in-law to the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Chief Felix Okungbowa. Also, some of the arrested armed robbers included the gang that carted away N7.7million after they... (GunPolicy.org)
70 Armed Men Attack Police Station and Bank in Nigeria: 8 Deaths
28 May 2011
Le Figaro (France) / AFP
Des hommes armés soupçonnés d'appartenir à un groupe islamiste radical ont attaqué hier une caserne de la police, un commissariat et une banque dans le nord du Nigeria, faisant huit morts a annoncé la police durant la nuit de vendredi à samedi.
Le chef de la police de l'Etat de Borno, Mohammed Jinjiri Abubakar, a indiqué à l'AFP que l'attaque s'est déroulée dans la ville de Damboa, à environ 100 km au sud de Maiduguri, la capitale de l'Etat.
"Ils ont... (GunPolicy.org)
Court Hears 13 Containers of Guns Were Illegally Imported to Nigeria
18 February 2011
Nation (Lagos)
One of the two men being tried over last year's importation of 13 containers loaded with firearms, Ali Abbas Usman Jega, was arrested with a gun 23 years ago, a Federal High Court in Lagos heard yesterday.
At the resumption of the trial yesterday, the prosecution, led by Mrs. Olufunmilayo Fatunde, tendered a document - a statement dated October 27 last year, containing details of how Jega was arrested, by the police, as a teenager with a locally made gun.
Jega, a... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Disbands Illegal Gun Trafficking Task Force, Aims to Arrest Staff
25 January 2011
Nation (Nigeria)
The Federal Government has disbanded the National Task Force on illegal importation of goods, small arms, ammunition and light weapons.
The directive was contained in a statement signed by the Legal Director, Federal Ministry of Finance, Bukhari Bello, on behalf of the Finance Minister, Mr Olusegun Aganga.
The directives followed the Ministry's discovery that there is no law backing the task force.
The task force, according to the statement, has no fixed address and... (GunPolicy.org)
Maryland Man Gets 3 Years for Smuggling US Shotguns, Ammo to Nigeria
3 January 2011
Associated Press
GREENBELT — A federal judge has sentenced a Laurel man to more than three years in prison for shipping guns and ammunition to Nigeria.
Fifty-year-old Emenike Nwankwoala, a former state probation officer, was sentenced Monday in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt.
Prosecutors say Nwankwoala told an undercover agent from Immigration and Customs Enforcement that he had been buying shotguns and shipping them to Nigeria for the past decade, turning a large profit.... (GunPolicy.org)
UN Urged to Take Decisive Action, Curb Gun Trafficking in Nigeria, Africa
12 August 2010
Vanguard (Lagos)
OWERRI, Nigeria — The President of Youths Enhancement Organization,(YEO), Ambassador Obinna Egbuka, has appealed to the United Nations to take decisive action to end what he termed "the irresponsible trade in conventional weapons across the globe".
Obinna, who spoke in Owerri, ahead of this year's World Youths Day, said the appeal became expedient now as Nigeria grapples with increasing cases of kidnapping and armed robbery.
He argued "that trade in conventional... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Take Guns Home, Then Thieves Steal Them for Nigerian Criminals
5 August 2010
Vanguard (Lagos)
JOS — The Plateau State Police Command has arrested 11 persons for allegedly specializing in stealing police service rifles and selling them. The principal suspect, Nanfir Nanfa allegedly broke into the homes of a sergeant and a constable to steal two AK 47 rifles and sold them.
Parading the suspects on Wednesday, state Police Commissioner, Mr. Ikechukwu Aduba said the gun stealing syndicate was smashed through intelligence reports while another four-man gang of... (GunPolicy.org)
Senator Alarmed at Proliferation of Guns in Nigerian State Election Race
26 July 2010
Nigerian Tribune (Ibadan)
Former Benue State and Senator of the Federal Republic, George Akume, has raised the alarm over proliferation of small arms in the state in a build-up to the 2011 general election.
Akume stated this when he received in audience members of Benue Youth Forum, Abuja branch, led by its president, Mr. Yakubu Sule, and secretary, Mr Justine Tyopine, at his residence in Abuja to register their objection on the suspension of the former governor from the Peoples Democratic... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Soldiers Capture Alleged Illegal Gun Dealers with 1,283 Firearms
5 July 2010
Leadership (Nigeria)
KADUNA — The men of the 82nd Division of Nigerian Army in Enugu has arrested illegal arms dealers and found in their possession 1,283 firearms along ammunitions in large quantity in Aba, Abia State.
The General Officer Commanding of the Division, Major General Mohammed Isah, stated in an interview with the BBC Hausa on Thursday night.
The GOC said they have no license to carry out such dealings and they were suspected of supplying arms to suspected armed robbers and... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian President Accuses Developed Nations of Dumping Guns in Africa
25 June 2010
Agence France Presse
TORONTO — Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan Friday denounced the dumping of small arms and light weapons in Africa by developed countries, calling it one of the major causes of underdevelopment in the continent.
Jonathan, who is scheduled to speak to the G8 summit on its Millenium Development Goals, told journalists he would raise his concerns with world leaders, calling arms proliferation "one of the things that disturb me most."
"The excessive dumping of small... (GunPolicy.org)
Ex-militants Surrender 20,000 Weapons in 'Faulty' Nigerian Gun Amnesty
13 May 2010
Vanguard (Lagos)
ABUJA - Presidential Adviser on Niger Delta and National Co-ordinator of the Post- Amnesty Programme, Mr. Timi Alaibe, has blamed the lull in the implementation of the programme on lack of proper planning before the announcement of the amnesty, given the fact that the nation was faced with a major crisis in the Niger Delta, at the time.
"We experienced some sort of delay in the programme because there was no structure on ground, no concrete plan document because we... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Gun Amnesty Alleged Fraudulent, Corrupted by Government
25 April 2010
234 Next (Timbuktu)
The federal government's amnesty programme is heading for the rocks with allegations that money meant for the rehabilitation of militants has been embezzled and the youth are now threatening to return to the creeks.
Acting President Goodluck Jonathan who was all too aware of the dangers, moved last week to salvage public confidence in the programme by restructuring it.
Under the new structure, Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Timi Alaibe, would... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Asks for America's Help to Reduce Proliferation of Guns in Africa
15 April 2010
Nigeria First (Abuja), Media release
Shortly before departing Washington D.C. on Wednesday April 14, Acting President Goodluck Jonathan called on members of the Black Caucus in the US Congress to stem the tide of proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Africa.
The Acting President, who met with the Group at the Capitol Hill in the US Capital City, urged the caucus to come up with a draft bill for the control of the dumping of small arms and light weapons in Africa.
Dr Jonathan said attributed... (GunPolicy.org)
Human Rights Group Claims Nigeria 'Under Siege' as Guns Proliferate
25 March 2010
Vanguard (Lagos)
AWKA — The Civil Liberties Organisation, CLO, in Anambra State has called for full investigations into the recent arrest of one Mr. Martin Anokwara over alleged smuggling of about 100,000 ammunitions and a gun valued at over N6 Million into the country.
Describing the incident as a national embarrassment, especially when the importer confessed to the police that the ammunition and gun were on transit to Onitsha Main Market for onward distribution to the end users in... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Chief Pulls Gun, Shoots, Kills 27yr-old Lover, Mother of 3 in Nigeria
21 March 2010
Daily Trust (Nigeria)
An Assistant Superintendant of Police (ASP) with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command last Wednesday allegedly shot to death his lover, a 27-year-old divorcee and mother of three children.
Residents said the officer was infuriated when he found out that his lover, Deborah Kaase had a relationship with another man.
Late Deborah's relation, Tu Real, said the relationship between the police officer and Deborah began after she left her husband last year.
He... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Seize 100,000 Rounds of Smuggled Ammunition, Guns in Nigeria
19 March 2010
Daily Champion (Lagos)
UMUAHIA, Nigeria — Detectiveds from Federal Anti Robbery Squad (FARS), Adeniji Adele, Lagos have intercepted truck load of arms and ammunition worth over N12 million.
Also four persons who allegedly imported the ammunition have been arrested. They are being detained by FARS at Adeniji Adele.
Daily Champion gathered that the over 100,000 rounds of ammunition were en route to Onitsha in Anambra State before policemen, acting on a tip off, intercepted a Leyland truck... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Groups Fight with Home Made Guns, AK-47s in Nigeria Gang War
2 March 2010
Daily Independent (Lagos)
ENUGU/ABAKALIKI, Nigeria — Residents are now counting their losses after the ceasefire that followed Ezza/Ezzilo communal clash in Ebonyi State, while security forces have started recovering arms.
Though, the number of casualties and quantum of material losses are still not clear, the police command admits that much had been lost.
The hostilities ceased shortly after Governor Martin Elechi in the company of the Police Commissioner, Emmanuel Dipo Yeni, visited the... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Bird Hunter Says He Shot, Killed 15yr-old Boy by Accident
1 March 2010
Daily Independent (Lagos)
LAGOS — Kamilu Kamoru, a peasant farmer, had set out to harvest tubers of yam for his family on Saturday, February 6, 2010.
Armed with a Dane gun and a cutlass, he rode on his Suzuki motorcycle and had hardly settled down in his farmland situated at Afowowa, Isale Oyo, Oyo Town, Oyo State, when he sighted scores of guinea fowls feeding on his maize crops.
"Immediately, I sighted the birds, I was happy, hoping that I would kill one of them and ask my wife to prepare... (GunPolicy.org)
Highway Robbery Gang Arrested with 16 Rifles, AK-47s in Nigeria
1 March 2010
Vanguard (Lagos)
ASABA, Nigeria — Men of the Delta state police command have arrested a five-man gang along Patani/Ughelli road with dynamites and AK-47 rifles.
State police command's spokesman, Mr. Charles Muka who confirmed the incident said that policemen on patrol duty successfully dislodged the gang before they could strike. According to him, "police command has recovered 16 assorted rifles seized from five members of the gang terrorizing Patani /Ughelli road users.
"On 24th... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Stop Car, Seize 16 Locally Made Guns, Arrest Driver in Nigeria
20 February 2010
Leadership (Abuja)
LAFIA, Nigeria — The Nasarawa State Police command on Thursday intercepted, 16 local made rifles along Akwanga/Jos road en route from Cross River State to Jos, the Plateau State capital.
Briefing newsmen in Lafia, the state police commissioner, CP Ephraim Amakulor, said that the rifles were stuffed in the door and boot mat in a Toyota Saloon car intercepted along Akwanga roundabout during the police stop and search operation.
The commissioner explained that the... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Herdsmen Storm Nigerian Village, Shoot, Kill 32
22 December 2009
IRIN (UN News)
KANO, Nigeria — A tense calm has been restored following clashes between pastoralists and farmers in central Nigeria's Nasarawa State which left 32 people dead, scores of houses burned, and several farms destroyed, officials told IRIN.
Violence erupted on 18 December when pastoralists attacked the farming village of Udeni Gida - two weeks after a clash with farmers on 6 December when herdsman led their cattle into rice fields resulting in the death of a farmer,... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria, Ukraine to Cooperate in Tackling Gun Running in West Africa
17 November 2009
African Press Agency
LAGOS — Nigerian President Umaru Yar'adua said on Tuesday that Nigeria and the Republic of Ukraine would cooperate to stem the tide in illegal trading in small arms across West African countries.
Receiving a letter of credence from the new Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Valerii Vasyliev in Abuja on Tuesday, Yar'adua expressed the hope that"Ukraine will help us to bring the illegal trade under control".
Yar'adua noted the long-standing friendly relations between... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria May Lift 1980s Police Ban, Allow Gunshot Wounds to Be Treated
15 October 2009
Associated Press
ABUJA, Nigeria — A Nigerian lawmaker says parliament is considering a bill that will make it a criminal offense for hospitals and medical workers to delay or deny treatment of gunshot wounds.
House of Representatives member Mayor Eze said Thursday that failure to treat a victim in both private and public hospitals could result in at least five years in prison.
Nigerian hospitals now must wait to treat victims of gunshot wounds because of a police directive from the... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Calls for Reinforced UN Fight Against Illicit Global Gun Trade
28 September 2009
Xinhua
UNITED NATIONS — There is an urgent need for a rejuvenated fight against trafficking in small arms, a top Nigerian diplomat said at the General Assembly here Monday, stressing the ties between that trade and piracy and oil smuggling in the Niger Delta.
"The proliferation of small arms in West Africa is fast turning the region into a major transit point for illicit drugs, thus also facilitating the growth of criminal syndicates, some with enough firepower to... (GunPolicy.org)
Arms Amnesty Has Reduced Gun Running in Nigeria, Says Government
24 September 2009
Leadership (Abuja)
ABUJA — The Director-General of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Joseph Gowa has said that the amnesty programme of the Federal Government has reduced the incidence of arms competition among militant groups in the Niger Delta region and also reduced the influx of small arms and light weapons into the restive area.
He said the programme has achieved great results and has the potential of addressing the problems of the region if embraced and given full cooperation by... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Politician, 5 Others Arrested for Gun Running, 13 Guns Seized
15 August 2009
Vanguard (Lagos)
The Chairman of Moba Local Government, Mr Akinwale Alebiosu, and five others have been arrested by the Ekiti State Police Command over alleged gunrunning.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) learnt that Alebiosu and others were arrested at Otun-Ekiti on Friday at about 11p.m. with 13 guns concealed in a vehicle.
Alebiosu was also alleged to be hiding thugs in his house at Otun-Ekiti.
The Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr Fabian Ojiri, confirmed the arrest of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Rebels Retain Their Weapons in Slow Start for Niger Delta Gun Amnesty
10 August 2009
Inter Press Service News Agency
Nigeria's president Umaru Yar'Adua is embarking on an ambitious move to end armed insurgency in the country's oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Under a government initiative which started on Aug, 6, militants in the region have 60 days to hand over their arms in return for a presidential amnesty, unconditional pardon and reintegration programme.
As the first week of the amnesty period draws to a close, only a few weapons have been handed over at designated screening... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,Ukraine,Equatorial Guinea
Crew of Impounded, Gun-filled Ukrainian Plane Moved to Nigerian Capital
22 June 2009
This Day (Lagos)
KANO — The seven-member crew of the Ukrainian aircraft that flew into the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport on Tuesday with arms and ammunition were yesterday moved to the Abuja office of the Directorate of Military intelligence (DMI) for further investigation.
A Nigerian clearing agent linked with the Ukrainian aircraft, simply identified as Sylvester, was also taken to the DMI office with the crew.
Sources also confirmed that Ukrainian embassy officials met... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,Ukraine,Equatorial Guinea
Ukrainian Plane, Gun Cargo Seized in Nigeria May Be 'Meant for Militants'
21 June 2009
Vanguard (Lagos)
Military authorities yesterday said the Ukranian cargo aircraft loaded with arms and ammunition, which was seized at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport last week, was the type of aircraft used for arms smuggling and that they have no reason not to believe that the arms were not meant for militants in the Niger Delta.
According to the military, whether the cache of weapons were destined for Equitorial Guinea or Niger Delta, it is one and the same thing as MEND... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,West Africa,United Nations
NGOs Urge Nigeria, West Africa to Support UN Global Gun Trade Treaty
21 June 2009
Leadership (Abuja)
ABUJA — The West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA), Nigeria chapter, has called on government to express vocal support for a comprehensive Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in a move to broaden the base of the national assault against gun violence with reference to the restive Niger Delta region.
The group's president, Mr. Dickson Orji, who made this call at a briefing to mark the global week of action on small arms and light weapons, said the call is coming as... (GunPolicy.org)
Equatorial Guinea,Nigeria,Ukraine,Guinea-Bissau,West Africa
Nigeria Seizes Planeload of Guns, Military Ammunition for Mystery Client
19 June 2009
Daily Trust (Abuja)
The huge consignment of weapons found in the Ukrainian cargo plane now detained at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano was procured by the Ministry of Defence of Equatorial Guinea, the crew members of the detained plane told security agents yesterday.
They insisted that they were on their way to Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea, to deliver the arms consignment from the former Soviet Republic of the Ukraine when the plane stopped over in Kano to... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,Ukraine,Equatorial Guinea
Nigeria Impounds Ukrainian Plane Carrying Guns for Equatorial Guinea
18 June 2009
Reuters
KANO, Nigeria — A Ukrainian cargo plane bound for Equatorial Guinea has been impounded in Nigeria after security officers found weapons and ammunition on board, a Nigerian official and Ukrainian media said.
The official at northern Nigeria's Kano airport, who asked not to be named, said the plane had stopped to refuel late on Wednesday when the arms were discovered during a routine search.
Nigerian police confirmed that an aircraft had been detained but gave no... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun-toting Robbers, Kidnappers Gain 'Popular Hero' Status in Nigeria
11 June 2009
This Day (Lagos), Opinion
LAGOS — A rather novel but nefarious line of business is flowering in the land. It is in the emergence of kidnapping as a cottage industry of sorts and the elevation of the kidnapper/gunman as a new object of national attention, an anti-hero that often leaves a heavy cloud of trauma and even blood in his trail.
In recent months, we have seen an epidemic of kidnappings for ransom grow into a veritable business model. The victims have been as wide ranging as the... (GunPolicy.org)
Four Female Gun Traffickers, Smugglers Hunted by Nigerian Police
10 June 2009
Daily Trust (Abuja)
Four suspected female arms dealers who belong to a syndicate that specialises in supplying arms to armed robbers in different parts of the country, especially in the North-east have been declared wanted by the Taraba State Police command.
Taraba Police Commissioner, Aliyu Musa, who made this known to Daily Trust in Jalingo yesterday gave the names of the suspects as Awotu, Akudi, Abanyi and Akwen.
He said all of them belong to the same family and hail from Wukari... (GunPolicy.org)
West African Nations Call for Heavy Sanctions on Gun Running States
9 June 2009
Daily Sun (Lagos)
KADUNA — The Economic Community of West African States has called for imposition of heavy sanctions on any member-state that violates the United Nations treaty on the stockpile of small arms and ammunition.
Speaking in Kaduna on Monday, at a five-day workshop on the "Stockpile of Arms and Ammunition Management and Security" held at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna, Head, ECOWAS Small Arms Unit, Dr. Agrekethom Cyriaque said if state-owned weapons were not... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Runner Confesses, Names Local Nigerian Police as Main Source
21 April 2009
Daily Trust (Abuja)
An 83-year-old gunrunner, Bala Joji, has submitted himself to crime buster, Ali Kwara as he got wind that Kwara had perfected plans of arresting him in connection with some weapons he sold to criminals.
Arraigning the octogenarian before newsmen in Kano yesterday, Kwara revealed that it was the second time Malam Joji entered his net, saying he was later discharged the first time he arrested and handed him over to the police. The crime buster stated further that some... (GunPolicy.org)
Lagos Police Seize 41 Guns as Small Arms Proliferation Bites in Nigeria
13 April 2009
Punch (Lagos)
Men of the Lagos State Police Command have recovered 41 assorted guns and 364 pieces of live ammunition from hoodlums within the state during the first quarter of 2009.
According to statistics obtained by our correspondent from the command's Public Relations Office in Ikeja, Lagos on Friday, the policemen recovered 16 guns and 38 pieces of ammunition in January.
In February, 13 guns and 280 pieces of ammunition were recovered from bandits while 12 guns and 42 pieces... (GunPolicy.org)
Octogenarian, 'Bona Fide' Gunsmith Arrested for Making Guns in Nigeria
4 March 2009
Leadership (Abuja)
GUSAU — The Zamfara State police command has announced the arrest of an 85-year old man alleged to be a local gun manufacturer, Baushe Makeri of kotorkoshi village in Bungudu local government area of the state.
While parading the suspect with 11 locally made guns in his possession, along with nine other armed robbery suspects, the state commissioner of police, Alhaji Mohammed J. Abubakar, said the old man was arrested for supplying guns to armed robbers.
"The arrest... (GunPolicy.org)
Church Body Suggests 'Everybody Should Buy His Own Gun' in Nigeria
24 February 2009
This Day (Lagos)
ABUJA — Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday disclosed that it was considering sending a bill that would allow every adult to carry arms as a way of checking unwarranted attacks to the National Assembly.
The body also took a swipe at what it called the non-challant attitude of President Umaru Musa Yar Adua and Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to the violent crisis in some parts of the North, asking them to resign if they cannot proffer solutions to the... (GunPolicy.org)
West African Gun Smuggling Route Was Run by a Woman from Chad
8 February 2009
Daily Trust (Abuja)
KANO, Nigeria — Last week, a hunter and crime buster, Ali Kwara, cracked down on a robbery gang that led to the arrest of a man who claimed to be a supplier of arms and ammunitions to robbers and ethno-religious warlords during crises. In this chat with Sunday Trust, Sarki Azetu, 31, gives shocking revelations.
As a fisherman in a small village in Benue, Sarki Azetu was that dexterous with net, and according to him, his cast was also superb.
But that, however, was... (GunPolicy.org)
Accused Ammo Dealers, Gun Runners Paraded by Nigerian Police
8 February 2009
Daily Triumph (Kano)
Some suspected armed robbers who were believed to be selling of guns and ammunitions used during the last Yalwan Shendam crises in Plateau state, have been arrested by a group of policemen led by the renown hunter Alhaji Ali Kwara.
While parading the suspects to newsmen on Tuesday in Kano, one of the suspects, Sarki Azaitu said he used to receive arms supply from a woman, one Awotuni who is a Jukun by tribe.
According to him, the woman who herself acquire her supply... (GunPolicy.org)
Stiff Punishment Threatened for Nigerian Police Who 'Lose' Their Guns
11 December 2008
Daily Trust
The Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro said policemen whose guns are stolen or no where to be found will face stiffer punishment.
Okiro gave the warning in Abuja yesterday during a meeting with Mobile Police Force Squadron (PMF) Commanders.
He said any policeman who allows guns attached to him to be stolen or to get missing will be held responsible and will be punished severely.
He said all guns assigned to policemen should be handled carefully as the Force will... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Soldiers Stole Army Guns, Sold to Rebels: Sentenced to Life
8 December 2008
This Day (Lagos)
LAGOS — Eight soldiers entrusted with the responsibility of safe-keeping the military arms at the Command and Staff College arms depot, Jaji and the One Base Army Ordnance, Kaduna were found guilty by a General Court Martial that sat in Kaduna to have stealthily sold those arms to River State-based Movement for the Defence of the Niger Delta (MEND) for use to wage war against the Nigerian State.
As an army major, if you add his salary and all his military entitles,... (GunPolicy.org)
Officers Sold 7000 Army Guns to Rebels in 'Mind Boggling' Nigerian Theft
28 November 2008
Punch (Lagos), Editorial
Military authorities last week demonstrated a strong resolve to deal with the unrest in the troubled Niger Delta region by handing down life sentences and demotions to soldiers implicated in the sale of arms from the Nigerian Army armoury to militants. The soldiers who appeared before a General Court Martial had racked up a N100 million windfall from the sale of over 7, 000 military weapons to a militant group, Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND),... (GunPolicy.org)
