Security agencies across Nigeria, including the police and military, lost a total of 282 rifles to gunmen between January and June 2026, raising fresh concerns over the proliferation of sophisticated weapons in the hands of criminal groups.
Details contained in a security report obtained by PUNCH revealed that the missing firearms were lost during attacks on security formations, ambushes on operational convoys, and incidents involving personnel desertion. The report identified the Nigeria Police Force as the agency with the highest number of missing rifles, followed by the Nigerian Army and other paramilitary organisations.
The report highlighted the growing danger posed by the loss of service weapons, warning that many of the rifles could eventually be used by bandits, kidnappers, insurgents and other non-state actors to carry out attacks against civilians and security personnel. It noted that several recent security breaches across different parts of the country have been linked to the increasing availability of sophisticated firearms among criminal groups.
Security analysts described the development as a major setback in ongoing efforts to combat insecurity nationwide. According to them, the loss of such a significant number of rifles not only weakens operational effectiveness but also strengthens the capacity of criminal networks that continue to terrorise communities.
The report recommended stricter accountability measures for weapons issued to personnel, improved monitoring systems, enhanced protection of armouries and intensified intelligence operations aimed at recovering missing firearms. It also called for periodic audits of security equipment and stronger disciplinary measures against officers found negligent in handling weapons.
Stakeholders have urged the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Army Staff to take urgent action to prevent further losses and strengthen internal security protocols. They stressed that safeguarding military-grade weapons is critical to winning the fight against banditry, terrorism and organised crime.
The revelation comes amid sustained public concern over Nigeria’s security challenges, with citizens demanding improved welfare, training and operational support for security personnel deployed to volatile areas. Analysts warn that unless immediate measures are taken, the continued leakage of firearms into criminal hands could further complicate efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.
