Gun Policy News
Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
Effective Control of Illegal Weapons in Nigeria
23 September 2021
Punch (Nigeria)
The recent transmission by the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), of two executive bills to the National Assembly to control arms proliferation and regulate the importation of explosives into the country appears in order. But deeper scrutiny exposes the regime's tactless approach and the helplessness of security forces in curbing arms smuggling into Nigeria. The biggest problem is that in many parts of the country, the Nigerian state has lost its... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria's Buhari Transmits Bills on Gun Control,
15 September 2021
Daily Trust (Nigeria)
President Muhammadu Buhari has transmitted to the senate two bills that seek to control the proliferation of arms and regulate the importation and exportation of explosives in the country.
They are: the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons Bill 2021; and Explosives Bill 2021.
Buhari transmitted the bill in two separate letters dated the 26th and 27th August 2021 and read during the commencement of plenary by Senate President Ahmad Lawan on Tuesday.
Buhari, in the... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Students Denounce Influx of Illegal Firearms
26 August 2021
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
Students in Ogun State have blamed the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) over what they alleged as an influx of illegal firearms into the country through the borders in the state.
The students, under the aegis of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun, the National Association of University Students (NAUS) and the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) lamented that the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Service was becoming a toothless bulldog... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Villagers Stockpile Arms for Self-Defence
24 August 2021
Daily Trust (Nigeria)
Many communities in North West and North Central are contributing money to buy guns and other weapons to protect themselves against bandits, terrorists and other criminals, Daily Trust reports. Wealthy individuals are also reportedly buying personal guns to protect themselves against aggression or buying weapons for groups.
Villagers in Niger, Zamfara, Kaduna, Plateau and Katsina States are on the lead as many communities in States having security challenges have... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Reps Move to Tighten Gun Control Laws
13 July 2021
Premium Times (Nigeria)
In a bid to address the proliferation of arms and ammunition in the country, the House of Representatives on Tuesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Firearms Act.
The bill, which also seeks to provide strict penalties for illegal possession of firearms and to allow the production of arms and ammunition by private entities, was passed for second reading on Tuesday.
The sponsor of the bill, Adejoro Adeogun (APC, Ondo), said in his legislative... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Adopts Tougher Penalties for Illegal Firearms
1 July 2021
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
The Senate on Wednesday passed a bill which provides for three years jail term or N3 million fine or both, as penalties for anyone caught illegally possessing or dealing in firearms in Nigeria.
Titled 'Firearms Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021', the piece of legislation amends section 35 (2) of the Principal Act which previously provided a fine of just N1000 as penalty.
The amendment to section 35(2), which is captured in Clause 4 of the bill, provides for stiffer... (GunPolicy.org)
Merchants Of Death: Tactics Criminals Use to Smuggle Firearms Into Nigeria
21 May 2021
Punch (Nigeria)
Criminals are hell-bent on making Nigeria unsafe with the diverse methods being used to smuggle firearms into the country. The country is currently battling insurgents, killer herders, robbers, kidnappers and bandits using sophisticated weapons to cause mayhem across states in the country. The security agents have been able to bust some of the gangs and their methods of smuggling firearms into the country while others albeit escaped their eagle eyes. There are viral... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria: Tackling Insecurity with Cargo Tracking Note
26 March 2021
This Day (Nigeria)
Over the years Nigeria has been bedeviled by insecurity and the problem has become worse in the last five years.
The situation seems to have defied all effort by the federal government to check the menace. Apart from banditry and kidnapping for ransom, piracy in the nation's waters is at an all-time high.
Also, the country has been besieged by the outbreak of violence and conflicts, which have claimed thousands of lives and property.
For instance, Boko Haram has, in... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian State Vows to Prosecute Herders with Firearms
2 March 2021
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
Herders and livestock owners in Bayelsa State who are caught with firearms will be arrested and prosecuted by the state government when the anti-open grazing bill before the House of Assembly is passed into law and assented to by Governor Douye Diri.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Biriyai Dambo SAN, stated this while speaking at the public hearing on the legislative document titled, 'Livestock Breeding and Marketing Regulation Bill, 2021' at the House... (GunPolicy.org)
How Arms Proliferation Fuels Insecurity in Nigeria
7 February 2021
All Africa
Despite efforts by security forces, violent crimes are on the hike pointing to availability of small and light weapons in the country. Experts attribute this trend to large unmanned borders.
Proliferation of arms, occasioned by illegal and porous borders and booming business of gun-running, is fuelling Nigeria's security challenges, giving rise to criminal activities across the country.
Investigations by Daily Trust show a spike in cases of banditry, kidnapping,... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria: Police Warn Against Unlawful Gun Possession
6 January 2021
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
As a result of various violence and attacks, kidnapping and other vices across Oyo State, the State Police Command has warned against possession of illegal firearms in the state.
The warning was contained in a statement on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Oyo State Command, Fadeyi Olugbenga, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Joe Nwachukwu Enwonwu.
According to the statement, "It has come to the attention of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Insecurity and the Right to Bear Arms in Nigeria
4 November 2020
Guardian (Nigeria)
One of the cardinal responsibilities of government is the safeguard of lives and properties, provided under Section14 (2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution as amended. So paramount is this responsibility that the entire economic, social and political progress of any society depends on it.
Nigeria for the past decade has witnessed unprecedented amount of bloodshed, destruction of properties and displacement of people from their native homes and places of business. The level... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Give Deadline for Submission of Illegal Firearms
17 September 2020
Premium Times (Nigeria)
As part of efforts to curb the proliferation of firearms, the Niger State command of the Nigeria Police Force has issued an ultimatum for submission of illegal and prohibited firearms.
"The Niger State Police Command hereby calls on members of the public who are in possession of illegal and prohibited firearms such as single barrel, double barrel, automatic pump action and locally fabricated gun etc to render such firearms to a nearby Police Division, Area Command or... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Establishes Centre for Control of Arms
28 August 2020
Premium Times (Nigeria)
President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the establishment of a national centre for the control of small arms and light weapons, the national security adviser, Babagana Monguno, said.
The centre will be domiciled under the office of the NSA and efforts are on to give it a legal backing, Mr Monguno told State House reporters Thursday.
He added that the centre will be similar to the counter terrorism centre and the cybersecurity centre, both of which are domiciled under... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian State Sets Up Special Squad on Illegal Firearms
21 August 2020
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
The Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Mr Mike Okoli, has set up a special squad to mop up illegal firearms in the state.
A statement on Friday by Mr Asinim Butswat, the Police Public Relations Officer, quoted CP Okoli as saying that the initiative was in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Mohammed Adamu.
He said the IGP had specifically directed "commissioners of police to initiate appropriate actions to identify, isolate, disarm,... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Blacksmith Arrested for Illegal Firearms Fabrication
18 August 2020
Premium Times (Nigeria)
Shapraku Umade, a 19-year old blacksmith who specialises in fabricating firearms, has been arrested by police in Lagos, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Hakeem Odumosu, has said.
Mr Umade was arrested alongside two other suspects at the Ajah area of the state during a transaction of illegal firearms. The team transports the firearms from Benue to Lagos State where they sell at the rate of N30,000 each.
According to the Commissioner of Police, "information was... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Security Bans Display of Firearms in Public
29 January 2020
Daily Independent (Nigeria)
The Commandant General of the corps, Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu of NSCDC, has banned members of the Civil Defence armed squad from the display of firearms, especially in public places.
He said this when he paid a condolence visit to the former governor of Imo state and serving Senator Rochas Okorocha to commiserate with him on the demise of an illustrious son of the state.
Abdullahi maintained that the order was necessitated by the need to prevent future occurrences of... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Governor Illegally Imported 1,000 Ak-47 Guns, Two Million Bullets
8 November 2019
Premium Times (Nigeria)
The Nigerian government has confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES that a former Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun, did not get approval to import weapons into Nigeria.
Mr Amosun, a serving senator, requested and received approval for a duty waiver to import only 13 armoured personnel carriers for police operations in Ogun State in 2012, Ben Akabueze, the director-general, Budget Office of the Federation, told PREMIUM TIMES in a recent letter.
The federal government's... (GunPolicy.org)
West Africa,Ghana,Côte d'Ivoire,Nigeria,Mali,Burkina Faso,Sierra Leone
Homemade Firearms Fuel Conflict in West Africa
18 October 2017
ENACT Observer
The trafficking and illicit circulation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) is often discussed in the context of fuelling instability and insecurity in West Africa. Rarely, however, do these conversations give appropriate attention to the issue of locally manufactured weapons.
The production of firearms by local artisans is not new to the region. It has existed in many countries (e.g. Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal,... (GunPolicy.org)
Abuja Police Uncover Illegal Firearm Factory
14 August 2017
Premium Times (Nigeria)
The Commissioner of Police in the FCT, Sadiq Bello, said the Command has arrested three suspects in connection with an illegal firearm fabricating factory in Shenagu village near Zuba, FCT.
The suspects are: Philip John, owner of the factory, Onyegabueze Okpara, supplier of ammunitions and Joseph Bulus, distributor of the arms.
Mr. Bello made the disclosure while briefing journalists on arrest by operatives of the command on Friday in Abuja.
He said that items... (GunPolicy.org)
Brazil,Colombia,Mexico,Venezuela,United States,India,Nigeria,South Africa,El Salvador
World is Far Less Violent: Global Murders Halving in a Decade
7 September 2016
Foreign Affairs (USA)
The world has never been safer than it is right now. Most forms of violence have dropped precipitously over the past few centuries. Although conflict deaths recently spiked (the war in Syria accounts for one third of all war-related killings today), fewer people are dying from warfare than at virtually any time in human history. Terrorist violence also increased over the past two years—especially in six countries the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia—but it still... (GunPolicy.org)
Of 500 Million Illegal Guns in West Africa, 70% Are in Nigeria
11 August 2016
Daily Trust (Abuja), Editorial
At the National Consultation on Physical Security and Stockpile Management (PSSM) in Abuja, organized by the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa (UNREC) and the Presidential Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons (PRESCOM), it was revealed that Nigeria hosts 350 million or 70 per cent of the 500 million illegal arms in West Africa.
UNREC's director, Ms Olatokunbo Ige, provided the statistics during the consultation in Abuja and said... (GunPolicy.org)
UN Says 70% of Illegal Guns in West Africa Are in Nigeria
3 August 2016
Vanguard (Lagos)
ABUJA — The United Nations has raised alarm over proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons (SALW) in Nigeria, with over 350 million.
According to the organisation, 70 per cent of estimated 500 million of such weapons said to be circulating in West Africa is domiciled in the country.
Director of United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa, UNREC, Ms. Olatokunbo Ige, gave this startling statistics at the ongoing National... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Task Force Urges Government to Curb Gun Proliferation
29 June 2016
Nation (Nigeria)
The National Task Force on Illegal Importation of Small Arms, Ammunition and Light Weapons has urged the Federal Government to curb the proliferation of arms.
This followed attacks in Ogun State and other parts of the country by suspected militants.
It said the first step towards tackling insecurity was to enforce an effective mopping up of illegally imported arms, ammunition and light weapons.
The Southwest Coordinator of the organisation, Col. Anthony Awote (rtd),... (GunPolicy.org)
Failed Gun Amnesty Blamed for Firearm Violence in Nigeria
6 June 2016
Today (Nigeria)
The rising cases of armed struggles, including militancy championed by the Niger Delta Avengers, have been blamed on the poor implementation of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and proliferation of Small Arms and Lights Weapons in the country.
This was disclosed in Abuja at the weekend by the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Ambassador Emmanuel Imohe, during the Inter-Ministerial Roundtable on the ATT in Nigeria organised in... (GunPolicy.org)
Between 1 and 3 Million Illegal Guns in Nigeria in 2009 [FR]
18 May 2016
Courrier International (France)
[Translated summary: According to a study by the Small Arms Survey made in 2009, Nigeria has between 1 and 3 million illegal small arms and light weapons.]
Acculés par Boko Haram et la désertification dans le nord du pays, les pasteurs peuls musulmans se déplacent vers le Sud, peuplé d'ethnies minoritaires d'agriculteurs souvent chrétiennes. Cette nouvelle configuration réveille et attise le séculaire conflit pastoral. Une bombe à retardement.
Depuis six ans,... (GunPolicy.org)
Owners of Permitted Firearms Must Renew Licences in Nigeria
18 May 2016
Leadership (Abuja)
Concerned about the increasing proliferation of prohibited firearms that threaten security in parts of the country, and as part of initiatives aimed at ensuring adequate protection of lives and property of the citizens, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Solomon Arase, has urged persons in possession of non-prohibited firearms to immediately obtain or renew their licences before July, 2016 by following the process on the requisite web link of the Nigeria Police... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Order Illegal Owners to Surrender Guns
17 May 2016
Daily Trust (Abuja)
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase has warned individuals in possession of prohibited firearms to surrender them or risk arrest and prosecution.
The police also asked those with non prohibited firearms to renew their license, a statement Tuesday by police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olabisi Kolawole, said.
She said the IGP is concerned about the increasing proliferation and use of prohibited firearms that threatens security in... (GunPolicy.org)
Mali,Burkina Faso,West Africa,Nigeria,Niger
Nations, Agencies Gather for West Africa Gun Control Talks
2 May 2016
Daily Trust (Nigeria)
The ECOWAS Commission, European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are jointly working on a strategy to check the prevalence of small arms and light weapons [SALW] in the hands of non-state actors and its implication for peace and security in the region.
At the third steering committee meeting of the ECOWAS-EU small arms project held recently, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS), represented by the... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Herdsmen Banned from Carrying Guns
20 April 2016
This Day (Lagos)
MINNA — The Niger State Police Command has waged a fresh war against Fulani herdsmen in a bid to check kidnapping and cattle rustling.
The police have therefore outlawed the carrying of arms and ammunition by the herdsmen under any guise.
The decision of the police to ban the carrying of arms by the herdsmen followed an increase in the number of firearms recovered from the pastoralists in the last six months.
The state police spokesman, Bala Elikana, told... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police to Pass Drug Tests Before Receiving Guns
6 April 2016
This Day (Lagos)
ABUJA -- The Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase, has said the Force will henceforth carry out snap urine tests on all policemen for signs of drug abuse before they are issued lethal weapons. He said this may also be done at their operational points.
Arase stated that apart from retrieving their weapons, culprits would be provided appropriate help to wean them from drugs or other emotional or psychological issues that may trigger fatal outcomes in their line of... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Guns Flooding Nigeria, Fuelling Violence
12 March 2016
Daily Trust (Abuja)
In the last 10 years, the number of deaths as a result of violence in different parts of Nigeria has been spiking steadily. The fifth report of the Nigeria Watch Project released early this year indicates that between June 2006 and December 2015, a total of 94,470 deaths were recorded from fatal violence across the country. The country attained the climax in terms of number of deaths recorded from violence in the last 10 years in 2014 and 2015, accounting for 24 per... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Officials Arrest Man for Stockpiling Assault Weapons
21 May 2014
This Day (Lagos)
The Lagos State Police Command yesterday arrested and paraded a former leader of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Alhaji Mukaila Lamidi, for stockpiling arms and ammunition.
Also, the state Commissioner of Police, Umar Manko, paraded other 10 suspects who specialised in using military uniforms to assault and brutalise innocent citizens, as well as other forms of atrocities.
It was gathered that Lamidi was arrested... (GunPolicy.org)
Questions Raised About Arms Seizures in Cameroon
14 April 2014
Voice of America
YAOUNDE — Cameroon's government says it has seized huge consignments of arms and ammunition destined for Nigerian militant group Boko Haram. Residents in the area of the alleged seizure, however, say they are unaware of any such activity.
"The governor of the Far North Region has congratulated the forces of law and order and administrative authorities of Logone and Chari Division for impounding a huge quantity of arms and ammunition which was being smuggled for... (GunPolicy.org)
Doubts Over Cameroonian Claims of Arms Cache Find in Nigeria
9 April 2014
Deutsche Welle
The announcement of the discovery in Cameroon of a large cache of arms and ammunition intended for Boko Haram insurgents in Nigeria is regarded in some quarters as government propaganda.
There was alarm in northern Cameroon when it was announced in early April that two Italian priests and a nun had been kidnapped by suspected members of the Islamist sect Boko Haram, which is waging an insurgency in neighboring Nigeria.
The whereabouts of the three are still unknown.... (GunPolicy.org)
Several Assault Weapons Seized from Suspected Kidnappers in Nigeria
5 April 2014
Premium Times (Nigeria)
The Anambra State Police Command on Saturday paraded 19 suspected kidnappers.
The command also displayed arms and three bags of cannabis recovered from the hoodlums.
The arms include five AK-47 rifles; a barrater pistol, six pump action guns, 9,000 live cartridges; eight AK-47 magazines and a locally made pistol.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Usman Gwary, paraded the suspects at the Special Anti-Robbery Squad Office in Awkuzu, near Onitsha in Anambra.
Mr.... (GunPolicy.org)
Cameroon Arrests Two Weapons Suppliers to Nigerian Terror Group
1 April 2014
Premium Times (Nigeria)
The Cameroonian security forces have succeeded in capturing two suspected arms suppliers to terrorists in Nigeria, an official has said.
According to a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Chris Olukolade, over 288 rifles, 35 Rocket Propelled Guns and 35 improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs, were recovered from the suspects by the Cameroonian forces.
Mr. Olukolade said the recovery was made after a fierce encounter at Abugasse, Cameroon, close to the... (GunPolicy.org)
Africa,North Africa,Russia,Syria,Mali,Qatar,Turkey,Libya,Egypt,Chad,Somalia,Nigeria,Niger
Libya's Guns Free-For-All Fuels Region's Turmoil
22 March 2014
St Louis Post-Dispatch (Missouri)
TRIPOLI — At the heart of the Libyan capital, the open-air Fish Market was once a place where residents went to buy everything from meat and seafood to clothes and pets. Now it's Tripoli's biggest arms market, with tables displaying pistols and assault rifles. Ask a vendor, and he can pull out bigger machine guns to sell for thousands of dollars.
Libya, where hundreds of militias hold sway and the central government is virtually powerless, is awash in millions of... (GunPolicy.org)
Turkish Airlines Denies Arms Shipment to Nigeria
20 March 2014
Daily Trust (Abuja)
Turkish Airlines has denied reports that it has been bringing arms into Nigeria which might have found its way to the Northeast, where Boko Haram militants have caused violence.
"Turkish Airlines has not been involved in any carriage of arms to that country (Nigeria) from Turkey nor from any country," the airline said in a statement yesterday.
The reports stem from a leaked tape, where Mehmet Karatas, an assistant executive of the airline, allegedly tells Mustafa... (GunPolicy.org)
West Africa,Central African Republic,Sudan,Nigeria,Congo (DRC),Cameroon,Libya
Arms Smuggling to Nigerian Criminals Threatens Cameroon
21 February 2014
IRIN (UN News)
YAOUNDE — Recent arms seizures and arrests of traffickers in Cameroon's Far North Region have highlighted the escalating insecurity caused by Boko Haram in neighbouring Nigeria and the impact of the unrest in the Central African Republic (CAR) and Sudan.
In January, Cameroon's security forces arrested a man attempting to transport 655 guns to Nigeria. In September 2013, 5,400 AK-47 rifles were seized on a pick-up truck in Maroua, the capital of Far North Region,... (GunPolicy.org)
Two Nigerian Men Held in Sierra Leone for Unlicensed Guns
10 February 2014
Concord Times (Freetown)
Two Nigerians - Paul Ekechukwu and Prince Duru - were last Friday remanded at the maximum security prison at Pademba Road for allegedly being in possession of firearms without license.
The accused are being tried at the Freetown Magistrates' Court No. 2, presided over by Magistrate Komba Kamanda, on two counts of unlawful possession of small arms without license, contrary to section 19(2) of the Arms and Ammunition Act No.14 of 1955, as repealed and replaced by section... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Bans Issue of New Gun Licences
8 February 2014
Leadership (Abuja)
In his renewed move to curb the proliferation of arms and thuggery, the inspector-general of police (IGP), Mr Mohammed Abubakar, has banned the issuance of new firearms licences to individuals.
This was disclosed to journalists in Lagos yesterday by force police public relations officer Frank Mba, at the pull-out ceremony of some top police officers at the Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday.
Mba said that arms proliferation and thuggery were among security... (GunPolicy.org)
'Brilliant' Nigerian Lecturer Shot Dead at Home
18 December 2013
Premium Times (Nigeria)
A senior lecturer in the Department of Sociology at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Dr. Olusegun Onabanjo, was on Wednesday shot dead by gunmen who stormed his private residence.
PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the killers stormed the residence located in Odomolasa area of Ilese-Ijebu at about 1.00 a.m. and attempted to force their way into the apartment.
As at the time the assailants were making frantic efforts to break in, residents of the area said Mr.... (GunPolicy.org)
Report Shows 80 Percent of Privately Held Arms in Nigeria are Illegal
13 December 2013
This Day (Lagos)
A report has revealed that all parts of Nigeria are ravaged with armed violence, which has been detrimental to the socio-economic well-being of the country, with 80 per cent of weapons in private hands having been acquired illegally.
The report, titled: 'The Violent Road', which was presented to the media in Abuja yesterday, was conducted by the National Working Group on Armed Violence (NWGAV) in conjunction with the United Kingdom based Non Governmental Organisation... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Catholic Priest Investigated Over Illegal Guns
7 December 2013
Vanguard (Lagos)
Police authorities in Imo State are investigating a Roman Catholic priest (names withheld) for unlawful possession of firearms. The priest, said to be in-charge of one of the prominent Parishes in Dikenafai, Ideato South Local Government area, Imo State, was arrested for allegedly being in possession of three unlicensed guns with which he threatened the lives of his parishioners.
Crime Guard reliably gathered that the guns which include one pump action riffle, one... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Drafts Law to Meet Arms Trade Treaty Requirements
24 November 2013
Daily Trust (Abuja)
ABUJA — At a workshop organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Abuja last week, 30 legal experts from the Ministries of Justice, Defence and Foreign Affairs and the National Assembly, received advice and tools for drafting a bill on the requirements of the Arms Trade Treaty and the Nigerian domestic law.
The treaty requires parties to prevent the illicit trade in conventional arms, comprising small arms and light weapons, tanks, missiles,... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan,Somalia,Burundi,Liberia,Ghana,United States,Europe,Zimbabwe,Uganda,Tanzania,Sudan,Nigeria,Namibia,Kenya,Ethiopia,Africa
How Disarmament in Africa Got More Complicated
5 November 2013
IPI Global Observatory
Africa is ground zero in the international debate on controlling the small arms and light weapons trade. For more than a decade, diplomatic activity to contain arms and ammunition transfers has been animated by a concern with instability and contagion generated by the continent's many wars. Leading think tanks, research groups, and advocacy organizations have repeatedly drawn attention to the way the burden of armed violence in Africa is a product of low-tech assault... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Establishes Committee to Tackle Illegal Firearms Threat
29 October 2013
This Day (Lagos)
The President sets up a committee aimed at stemming the influx of illicit weapons which could undermine the security of the nation. A few weeks ago, President Goodluck Jonathan approved the establishment of a committee to stem the spread of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) most often used in creating insecurity and instability in Nigeria and other developing nations. Headed by Ambassador Emmanuel Imohe, other members of the committee include Ambassadors Martin I.... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Trafficking Charges Dropped Against Russians in Nigeria
8 October 2013
Leadership (Abuja)
A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos on Tuesday heard that the alleged arms trafficking charge against the 15 Russian sailors had been dropped.
The Russians, charged with unlawful importation of arms into Nigeria are: Zhelyazkov Andrey, Savchenko Sergel, Lopatin Alexey and Baranovskly Nikolay, Llia Shubov, Dimitry Bannyrh, Alexander Tsarikov and Kononov Sergel.
Others are Chichkanov Vasily, Varlygin Igor, Komilov Alexander, Mishin Pavel, Korotchenko Andrey, Vorobev... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Customs Seizes Smuggled Arms Concealed in Household Cargo
18 September 2013
This Day (Lagos)
A cache of arms and ammunition which were allegedly concealed and smuggled into the country through the Ports and Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML), Tincan Island, Apapa, Lagos, have been impounded by examination officers of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).
The examination officers, who were said not to have relied on the declaration of the contents of the container to be just two vehicles and other household items, have also arrested the agent simply... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Becomes First African Country to Ratify Arms Trade Treaty
13 August 2013
Premium Times (Nigeria)
Nigeria has become the first Africa country to sign and ratify the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olugbenga Ashiru, has disclosed.
"Nigeria becomes the first African country to sign and ratify the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT).
"This landmark event represents our deep commitment to a treaty which establishes common international standards for the import, export and transfer of conventional arms.
"We remain resolute and unyielding in our efforts... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Police Recover 22 Guns in One Month
24 July 2013
Daily Trust (Abuja)
The police arrested 40 suspects and recovered 22 assorted guns across the country in the second week of July, the Police Crime Report said in Abuja yesterday.
The report stated that the arrests and recoveries were made in Lagos, FCT, Kaduna, Osun, Cross River, Ogun, Taraba, Rivers, Kogi, Anambra, Kano, Ekiti, Edo and Enugu. It stated that the suspects were arrested in connection with armed robbery, kidnapping, and car snatching.
It said that the recovered guns,... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian State Plans to Legally Acquire Guns for Vigilantes
9 July 2013
Daily Trust (Abuja)
Zamfara State government has insisted that it will follow all legal means to acquire arms for its vigilante groups for enhancing security in the state.
This came a day after the Police headquarters in Abuja said it will not permit any vigilante group to bear firearms.
Speaking to the BBC Hausa Service, the Zamnfara State Information Commissioner, Alhaji Ibrahim Birnin Magaji, said the number of policemen in the state are not enough to protect the lives and properties... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Arrested as Part of Gun-Making Syndicate
5 July 2013
Sun News (Lagos)
Plateau State Police Command has arrested two policemen and 15 other persons suspected to be members of firearms production syndicates. The policemen, whose names were given as Corporal Joseph and Constable Mafwai were alleged to be suppliers of ammunition to criminals.
They have been dismissed by the police and would face prosecution alongside the other members of the gang who were arrested at Barkin Ladi. Parading the suspects before newsmen, Plateau State... (GunPolicy.org)
UK Judge Orders Almost 13,000 Guns Destroyed in Arms Dealer Case
2 July 2013
York Press
A judge has ordered the destruction of nearly 13,000 AK47 rifles associated with jailed York arms dealer Gary Hyde – after turning down a request for them to be deactivated for use in films.
Former special constable Hyde, 42, was jailed for seven years last December for overseeing an £800,000 consignment of rifles, 9mm pistols, rifles and bullets, from China to Nigeria in 2007.
The businessman, from Newton-on-Derwent, east of York, "put two fingers up" to strict... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria MP in Court Over Illegal Gun Possession
10 June 2013
Daily Trust (Abuja)
An Abuja Magistrates Court on Friday remanded in Kuje prison a member of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Friday Sani (alias Makama), for allegedly being in unlawful possession of fire arm, ammunition and police walkie talkie.
Sani, who was arraigned alongside one Job David, both pleaded not guilty to allegations of criminal conspiracy and abatement proffered against them by the police.
Chief Magistrate Usman Shuaibu adjourned till tomorrow to hear their application... (GunPolicy.org)
Taskforce Estimates 65% of Arms Imported to Nigeria Arrive Via Waterways
6 June 2013
WorldStage Newsonline (Nigeria)
The President, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) Mr. Eugene Nweke has said that Sixty five per cent of arms and ammunitions imported into Nigeria enter through the waterways, the President, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) Mr. Eugene Nweke has said.
Addressing members of the National Taskforce on Small Arms, Ammunitions and Light - Weapons who paid a courtesy visit to NAGAFF village in Lagos,... (GunPolicy.org)
Huge Weapons Cache Seized in Nigeria
30 May 2013
Daily Trust (Abuja)
KANO — The Joint Task Force has made the largest weapons discovery yet in Kano during a raid on a house occupied by a foreigner in Bompai area of the city, Daily Trust learnt from security sources yesterday.
The raid has taken two days and was still going on yesterday because of what sources said was the huge volume of the weapons, which were found in a specially-built bunker in the house.
On Monday night, troops laid siege on the area, cordoning off a street... (GunPolicy.org)
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)
Thailand,Malaysia,Indonesia,Kuwait,Qatar,Mexico,Peru,Venezuela,Colombia,Bolivia,Somalia,Nepal,Oman,Latvia,Mauritius,Guyana,Congo (DRC),Bosnia & Herzegovina,Saudi Arabia,Liberia,Kazakhstan,Singapore,Dominican Republic,Jordan,Trinidad & Tobago,United Arab Emirates,Guatemala,Honduras,Chile,Ecuador,Argentina,Zimbabwe,Zambia,Uganda,Tanzania,Senegal,Congo (ROC),Nigeria,Niger,Namibia,Morocco,Mauritania,Malawi,Côte d'Ivoire,Egypt,Burkina Faso,Brazil,Tunisia,Sri Lanka,Pakistan,Philippines,Yemen,United States,Italy,Germany,Israel,Austria,Russia,Africa,Americas,Asia,Europe,South Africa,Algeria,Angola,Botswana,Ghana,Guinea,Madagascar
Brazilian Gun Industry Seeks New Markets: Africa and Asia [PT]
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)
United Kingdom,China,Nigeria,Poland,Germany
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)
Africa,Americas,Asia,Europe,Oceania,Eastern Europe,East Africa,Australia,India,Nigeria,Mozambique,Russia
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)
Nigerian Soldiers Jailed for Life for Selling 7000 Guns, RPGs to Rebels
19 November 2008
Voice of America, Transcript
ABUJA — Six Nigerian soldiers have been sentenced to life imprisonment for selling guns and other weapons to militants and criminals in the Niger Delta. Prosecutors said the arms sales had contributed to the violence in the oil-rich region. For VOA, Gilbert da Costa filed this report from Abuja.
Security experts and rights groups have long accused some members of the security forces of secretly selling arms to militants and criminals in the Niger Delta.
A Nigerian... (GunPolicy.org)
Major, 5 Others Get Life for Selling 7000 Army Guns to Nigerian Militants
19 November 2008
Leadership (Abuja)
ABUJA — A ten-man military court martial headed by Brig-Gen. Bala Usara, yesterday in Kaduna, sentenced Major Sulaiman Alabi Akubo and five other soldiers to life imprisonment for illegally selling arms worth over N100 million to Niger Delta militants.
Other soldiers who shared Akubo's fate in the deal that involved over 7000 arms of various descriptions are Sergeant Matthias Peters, Lance Corporal Alexander Davou, Lance Corporal Moses Nwaigwe, Lance Corporal Nnamdi... (GunPolicy.org)
Seized Guns, Ammunition Illegally Imported from United States to Nigeria
5 November 2008
Vanguard (Lagos)
The Tin-can Island command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted arms and 1,767 rounds of ammunition concealed in three jeeps being illegally imported into the country and has also detained four persons said to include the consignee and the agent.
While handing over the items which includes 1,767 rounds of ammunition, two pistols, two single barrel riffles and three short pump action riffles to the port police authority, Customs Area Controller (CAC) of... (GunPolicy.org)
National Commission to Control Guns One Step Closer for Nigeria
10 October 2008
This Day (Nigeria)
ABUJA — The Federal Government yesterday inaugurated committee for the establishment of a National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
Minister of State for Defence, Mrs Fidelia Akuabata Njeze, said this is coming at a time when the country's peace and stability is increasingly under threat by activities of armed groups, as currently being witnessed in some parts of the country.
The committee, is to propose the mandate and composition of the Commission,... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Pushes Global Gun Trade Treaty to Stem Proliferation of Firearms
1 October 2008
Daily Trust (Abuja) / NAN
Nigeria yesterday in New York called for a legally binding global instrument to stem the proliferation of small arms in Africa.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Ojo Maduekwe, made the call while delivering Nigeria 's statement at the 63rd session of the UN General Assembly.
Maduekwe said that the legal moves became necessary due to the devastating impact of illicit trade in small arms and light weapons which fuel civil wars and insurgencies in some African... (GunPolicy.org)
Mass Gun Ownership No Solution to Violent Crimes in Nigeria
7 September 2008
Daily Trust (Abuja), Opinion
These are perilous times in Nigeria. The mounting wave of violent crimes in the country has prompted an atmosphere of fear, insecurity, uncertainty and total bewilderment.
In every nook and cranny of the polity today, the nefarious activities of armed criminals have posed a dangerous threat to hapless Nigerians and impinged on the ability of the Nigerian state to maintain law and order.
Indeed, the ugly situation is so surreal and horrible that one could nurse a... (GunPolicy.org)
Stray Bullet from Police Rifle Kills Boy, Shatters TV in Nigerian Sitting Room
18 June 2008
Daily Trust (Abuja)
MINNA — A 14 year old boy, Abubakar Onifade was killed in Minna on Monday night by a stray bullet from a police officer while watching television in his father's sitting room.
Our correspondent gathered that the stray bullet which went through the door of the sitting room hit the boy, an SS2 student of Hill Top Secondary School Minna on the chest and shattered the television screen.
It was also gathered that the tragedy occurred as the police officer on patrol of a... (GunPolicy.org)
Youth Group Launches Global Week of Action Against Gun Abuse in Nigeria
30 May 2008
Leadership (Abuja)
A coalition group under the auspices of Youth for Peace (YFP), said every year thousand of people die while millions are injured from gunshots which if not redressed, would undermine people's livelihood and security.
To this end, the group disclosed that first week of June will be the global week of action against gun abuse, stressing that all stakeholders should participate so as to remind the government of their responsibility from principle to practice.
A... (GunPolicy.org)
West African Civil Society Groups Praised for Role in Curbing Gun Violence
15 May 2008
Afrique en Ligne / PANA
LAGOS, Nigeria — The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Wednesday praised civil society organisations for their role in the ongoing campaign to achieve the level of ratification required to make the regional Convention to check the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in West Africa operational.
During his meeting in Nigeria's federal capital city Abuja with the President of the West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA), Dr.... (GunPolicy.org)
German Gun Makers Profited from Decades of Armed Violence in Nigeria
10 March 2008
Guardian (Lagos), Opinion
On New Year's Day 2008, 18 people died in a shooting scene in the Nigerian city of Port Harcourt, amongst them civilians who were caught up in the crossfire. Just like in Kenya — where massacres were raging at the same time — there was a German weapon at the centre of the violence: according to Nigerian press reports, the police confiscated one Heckler & Koch (H&K) G3 assault rifle from the attackers. However, German media only reported about this incident in the... (GunPolicy.org)
Senior Army Officers on Trial for Stealing, Selling Military Weapons in Nigeria
11 February 2008
Daily Sun (Lagos)
ABUJA — Five Senior Army officers and 10 other soldiers are to appear before a military court martial in Kaduna today for alleged involvement in illegal sale of arms and ammunition.
The court martial set up by the Army high command to try some of its officers and soldiers involved in the illegal sale of arms and ammunition.
The accused officers to appear before the court martial set up by the Army high command, include, Colonels R.O.Yusuf, Gadgere, Lieutenant-Colonel... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Army Officers Stole, Sold Thousands of Automatic Weapons
21 January 2008
Vanguard (Lagos), Editorial
LAGOS — Court martial of 15 soldiers, among them three colonels, two lieutenant colonels, one major and nine non-commissioned officers may just reveal a tip of the ease with which arms get into unauthorised through official sources. It is a matter for a larger enquiry than the confines of a military trial.
There are civil or non-military components of these matters that are often discarded as if we are still under military rule. Seven years ago, the Auditor-General... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Vows to Punish Army Officers Who Sold Hundreds of Assault Rifles
17 January 2008
Vanguard (Lagos)
LAGOS — The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Luka Yusuf, has vowed that none of the army officers found to be allegedly part of the syndicate that stole arms and ammunition from the Army Central Ordinance Depot in Kaduna, will go unpunished.
Fifteen officers, including three Colonels, are currently facing trial at a court-martial in Kaduna over the disappearance of hundreds of AK-47 rifles, GPMGs and ammunition boxes from the depot.
Gen. Yusuf, Vanguard... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Army, Police Officers Sold Assault Rifles, Machine Guns to Rebels
17 January 2008
Financial Standard (Nigeria), Editorial
The recent warning by President Umaru Yar'Adua's in Kontagora, Niger State at the end of a training exercise for soldiers that his administration will not tolerate widespread reports that arms and ammunition are missing in some army formations is an admonition that must be taken seriously. This is particularly apposite, following the revelation that some of the missing arms and ammunition from the Nigerian Army Central Ordinance Depot in Kaduna State were actually sold... (GunPolicy.org)
Governments, NGOs, UN Plan Roadmap for Gun Control in West Africa
15 January 2008
This Day (Lagos), Opinion
LAGOS — The proliferation, misuse and illegal possession of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) is becoming a common culture in various societies. In the not-too-distant past, SALWs was alien to the African society apart from the crude and primitive ones used by hunters in the hinterland.
Today, the incessant cases of political instability, deepening poverty, crimes of armed robberies, assassinations, militancy, oil bunkering, civil wars, ethnic insurgencies, to... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Army Officers Sold Hundreds of AK-47s, Machine Guns to Rebels
14 January 2008
Vanguard (Lagos)
Fifteen army officers, three of them Colonels, are currently facing a court martial in Kaduna over alleged disappearance of a large quantity of arms and ammunition from the armoury.
Also facing trial are two Lieutenant-Colonels, a Major and nine Non-Commissioned Officers.
Large sums of money are also alleged to have been found in the accounts of some of the accused persons.
The weapons were allegedly removed from the Nigerian Army Central Ordinance Depot in Kaduna... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Officers Charged With Supplying AK-47s to Criminal Gang
11 January 2008
Vanguard (Lagos)
LAGOS — A Superintendent of Police, said to be an armourer in Jos, an Inspector and three other rank officers in the same department have been arrested by the Police for allegedly supplying police AK-47 rifles to a deadly gang of criminals.
The SP who was picked up following confession by the robbers after some of them were nabbed was said to have reached agreement with the robbers that any time they went for an operation; the loot will be shared on a 50-50... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns, Armed Violence, Insecurity in Nigeria: The Niger Delta in Perspective
5 December 2007
Relief Web / Small Arms Survey (Geneva), Web Page
This report is based on field research that was carried out by the Small Arms Survey and our Nigerian partners from September 2006 to April 2007. Consequently, the analysis presented here reflects the situation in Nigeria during this period. While the report does address some key events that took place after April 2007 — the inauguration of the new president, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua; the initiation of peace talks in the Niger Delta; and the release of Alhaji Mujahid... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Official Blames West African Neighbours for Influx of Illegal Guns
30 October 2007
Vanguard (Lagos)
LAGOS — The Commandant of Nigerian Merchant Navy Corps, Benson Allen Edema weekend raised alarm over the continued importation of illegal arms and ammunition into the country through the high seas from other neighboring countries, stating that it was not only responsible for the rising crime rate in Nigeria but capable of destabilizing our economy.
Commander Edema who spoke to reporters Friday at his base in Race Course, Lagos lamented that some foreign ships have... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Accuse Man of Illegal Gun Making, Arming Criminals
25 October 2007
Daily Champion (Lagos)
GOMBE — The Gombe State police command has uncovered an illegal arms manufacturing outfit in Katam village of Akko local government area of the state that is believed to be supplying firearms to armed robbers terrorizing the area.
Briefing newsmen on Tuesday, the state commissioner of police, Mr. Joseph Ahmed Ibi, said following a tip off, operatives of the Criminal Investigation Bureau attached to the command went into the village and arrested the man, Salihu... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Man Buys Gun at Police Station: Same Police Arrest Him [Weird]
15 September 2007
Vanguard (Lagos)
MINNA — Cosmos Onyigbo bought a gun from an acquaintance at a Police station and gets arrested less than five minutes later for unlawful possession of firearms.
His arrest by the Police and subsequent charge for unlawful possession of firearms is still a mystery and unbelievable to him. In fact, the manner of his arrest looks to him like a "set up" even though he actually fell into the trap.
Cosmos Onyigbo, from Anambra State and a father of five had been living in... (GunPolicy.org)
Governor Urges Nigeria to Curb Gun Running Into Niger Delta region
29 August 2007
Daily Champion (Lagos)
LAGOS — Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State has urged the Federal Government to stem the influx of small arms into the Niger Delta region through improved security.
He made the call yesterday during a retreat for Bayelsa State executive council, special advisers, and other top government officials at the Eko Tourist Beach Resort Lekki, Lagos State.
Sylva stressed that proliferation of arms in the region has heightened militancy in the area and called for... (GunPolicy.org)
West African Nations Meet Again to Talk Gun Trade Restrictions, Treaty
3 August 2007
AfriCast
ABUJA — The second Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Small Arms Control Programme Steering Committee takes off in Abuja, Nigeria on August 6 to review progress on the process for ratification of the Convention on Small Arms in the Sub-region.
The ECOWAS Small Arms Control Programme (ECOSAP) is a capacity building programme aimed at establishing a sustainable system for the control of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in West Africa.
In an... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Laments Woman's Role in Gun Running, 'Exclusive Reserve of Men'
1 August 2007
This Day (Lagos)
YOLA — An alleged female gun-runner, who specialises in arms and ammunition supply to men of the underworld, has been arrested by Adamawa State Police Command. She was intercepted with over 100 rounds of ammunitions and a gun, along Ganye-Tungo road.
The middle-aged woman, Madam Rebecca, alleged to be a notorious dealer in arms and ammunitions, was arrested while trying to smuggle her consignment across the Taraba/Adamawa states border.
Also, the Command has... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns Killed 200 Nigerian Police in 2006: Gun Running a Regional Problem
27 July 2007
Vanguard (Lagos)
ABUJA — The Inspector-General of Police (IG) Mike Okiro yesterday said that the major challenge facing peace and security in the West African Sub-region is the constant proliferation of small arms.
Speaking in Abuja at a 2-day regional conference on the ratification of the Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, organized by the West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA), sponsored by UNDP, the Inspector-General of Police, Mike Okiro also disclosed that... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,West Africa,United Nations
West African NGOs Call for Govt Collaboration on Global Gun Trade Treaty
3 July 2007
This Day (Lagos)
LAGOS — Various stakeholders have called on the Federal Government to set up a Small Arms Working Group (SAWG) to meet on ways to check proliferation in the country.
The committee, when convened, is also to discus a cross-regional methodology for data collection; information sharing between members, network and the Government without endangering the lives of members of the Working Group and other interested parties.
Above issues were contained in a communique... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,West Africa,United Nations
Guns Prolong Nigerian Conflicts, Govt Should Push Global Gun Trade Treaty
29 June 2007
Vanguard (Lagos)
The West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA), has called on the Federal government to address the issues that have given rise to the increase in demand for small arms in Nigeria, noting that it has fueled and prolonged conflicts in the country.
WAANSA, a members of the International Action Network on Small Arms (IANSA), the global movement against gun violence, is a network of 700 civil society organisations working in 100 countries to stop the proliferation... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Village Gun Maker Manufactured Pistols for Robbers and the Rich
4 June 2007
This Day (Lagos)
MINNA — The police in Niger State, have discovered a local blacksmith who specialises in arms manufacturing at Pandogari Village, Rafi Local Government Council of the state and recovered 40 pistols during a raid.
The local arms manufacturer, Ahmadu Magaji, was arrested during investigations into a case of armed robbery involving 16 suspects caught last week, one of which confessed to have bought a pistol from Magaji.
The state commissioner of police, Haruna John,... (GunPolicy.org)
West Africa Network Decries Proliferation of Guns in Nigeria
29 May 2007
This Day (Lagos)
LAGOS — A Non-Governmental Organisation, Women in Peace-building Program (WIPNET) under the aegis of West Africa Network for Peace-building Nigeria (WANEP) has decried the problem of arms proliferation in Nigeria which has adverse impact on vulnerable groups such as women and children.
Speaking at a conference in commemoration of International Women's Day for Peace and Disarmament and media presentation of a publication titled "From Dispute To Dialogue", held... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Intercept Assault Rifles, Ammunition from Arms Dealers
10 May 2007
Daily Champion (Lagos)
Police in Delta State have intercepted large cache of ammunitions from arms dealers in Bayelsa State allegedly meant for the militants terrorizing multi-national oil companies in the Niger Delta region.
Also, the command recovered various grades of dangerous assault rifles from some die-hard criminals which they used in their operation.
Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Hezekiah Dimka stated Tuesday while parading over 14 armed robbery suspects with the... (GunPolicy.org)
Son of Nigerian Paramount Ruler Arrested for Gun Running
29 April 2007
Daily Trust (Abuja)
The Directorate of State Security Services (SSS) has uncovered a huge firearms syndicate, whose tentacles are spread across several states of the federation, and has the scion of a first class chief in Plateau state as its ring leader.
Operatives of the SSS confirmed to Sunday Trust in Abuja that Henry Pam, son of Victor Pam, Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau state Traditional Council, was arrested on Saturday, the 9th of December last year for illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Urges Clampdown on Guns, Gun Violence as Elections Near
19 March 2007
This Day (Lagos)
Chairman of Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, has called on security agencies to check the proliferation of small arms in the country for the April elections to be free of violence.
Ndoma-Egba who spoke at a one-day workshop organized by the Cross River State Police Command for stakeholders in the 2007 General Elections, noted that there were too many small arms in circulation in the country.
He said the typical Nigerian... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Procure 80,000 Guns, 32 Million Bullets for April Elections
7 March 2007
Daily Champion (Lagos)
LAGOS — Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mr. Sunday Ehindero yesterday announced plans by the force to procure thousands of firearms and ammunitions for the April general elections.
Specifically, he disclosed that arrangements have been concluded by the police leadership to acquire 40,000 (forty thousand) pieces of AK-47 riffles with 20,000,000 (twenty million) rounds of 7.65x 39mm ammunition; 10,000 pieces of Pistol Beretta with two million rounds of .9mm... (GunPolicy.org)
Chad, Niger, Nigeria Address Global Scourge of Gun Trafficking
7 March 2007
IRIN (UN News) / Reuters
ABIDJAN — Five years after the end of rebel wars in Niger, the presence of small arms in that country and over the border In Nigeria and Chad, continues to threaten the welfare of millions of people. Freeing a former conflict zone of such weapons is the aim of a pilot project under way in southeastern Niger. However, to ensure long-term success, similar initiatives with a more regional focus may be needed.
The destruction of 103 small arms handed in by people in... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Police Find Seven Trailer Loads of Illegally Imported Guns in Lagos
14 February 2007
This Day (Lagos), Editorial
If there is one more reason why Nigerians should be apprehensive of the forthcoming elections, the report from the Inspector General of Police, Mr Sunday Ehindero that the police recovered seven trailer loads of illegally imported arms in Lagos, is it.
True, the police have been recovering illegal arms in the past. With local manufacturers of gun, here and there, plus the ones that come from warring neighbouring countries, the volume of illegal arms in circulation can... (GunPolicy.org)
Liberian Police Re-arms Its Officers With Guns Donated by Nigeria
4 December 2006
Analyst (Monrovia)
MONROVIA — After receiving a consignment of fire arms from the Nigerian government, the Liberia National Police (LNP) has finally re-armed its officers.
The handover, which took place last Friday at the Police Headquarters on Capital Hill, brought together several international partners including the head of UNMIL, Ambassador Alan Doss, and US Ambassador to Liberia, Donald Booth
Others included UN Police Commissioner Mohammed Alhassan and Nigeria Ambassador, Eineje... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria Buys 80,000 Guns, 32 million Rounds of Ammo for Election Time
8 November 2006
African News Dimension
As a pre-emptive step, the Nigerian government as ordered 40,000 pieces of Ak-47 rifles and 20 million rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) ahead of the country's 2007 elections. The government anticipates an upsurge of criminal and violent activities prior to the polls.
Minister of Police Affairs, Alawoei Broderick Bozimo said, in Abuja, that "plans have been concluded to procure the following; 40,000 pieces of Ak-47 rifles with 20... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian NGO Mobilizes National Assembly on ECOWAS Gun Control
3 November 2006
Vanguard (Lagos)
Nigeria Action Network on Small Arms (NANSA) in collaboration with Oxfam GB recently organised a round table discussion on the need for Nigeria Government to ratify the ECOWAS Convention on small arms and light weapons, and also to champion Africa's support for an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) at the United Nations. The programme which was a product of the efforts by individuals, government and non-governmental organisations across the world, especially in the continent of... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian Gun Maker Ready to Mass Produce Pirated Version of AK-47 Rifle
2 October 2006
Xinhua
Nigeria is set for mass-production of Nigerian version of AK-47 rifles, Director General of the Defense Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Brig.-Gen. N.C. Maduegbunam said on Sunday.
Speaking at the ceremony to present Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo a Nigerian-type AK-47 in Kano, a leading industrial city in north Nigeria, Maduegbunam said the rifle project was conceived by the corporation some years ago.
"The design and production of two simple rifles... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigerian President Protests Global Gun Trade at United Nations Meeting
29 September 2006
Tide (Abuja)
When the world came together last week, the major issue of concern was the protraction of small arms proliferation around the world, and how this has aggravated conflicts in places such as Darfur and the Niger Delta regions. President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria particularly called on the United Nations to take more drastic action against this evil menace.
This scenario also played itself out when European Union diplomats met in Abuja to discuss the deteriorating... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria's President Laments Lack of UN Action on Global Gun Trade
26 September 2006
This Day (Lagos)
ABUJA — President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for greater global action to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in West Africa and other parts of the world, just as he observed that the illicit supply of small arms and light weapons to "non-state actors" was a major causative factor for political instability and insecurity in West Africa.
In an address delivered on his behalf to the 61st Session of the United Nations General Assembly by the... (GunPolicy.org)
Nigeria,West Africa,United Nations
Nigeria Should Lead African States, Push for UN Global Gun Trade Treaty
19 September 2006
This Day (Lagos)
LAGOS — As the world marks the Global Day of Action on Control Arms, the Nigerian government has been called up take the initiative and lead African States to press for positive steps in the negotiation of an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT).
"The Nigerian government should declare itself a supporter, and then become a co-sponsor of the resolution at the UN", said Mr. Dickson Orji, national coordinator of Nigeria Action Network on Small Arms (NANSA).
Making above call in... (GunPolicy.org)