The Federal Government has destroyed 2,809 illicit firearms recovered from criminal elements as part of ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of small arms and strengthen national security.
The destruction exercise was carried out at the Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment in Giri, Abuja, by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
Representing the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, at the event, Dr. Dennis Otuaro said the destruction of recovered weapons forms part of the Federal Government's strategy to combat terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry and other security threats across the country.
According to the National Security Adviser, every illegal weapon recovered and destroyed reduces the risk of such firearms returning to criminal use and enhances efforts to protect lives and property.
He also warned individuals involved in the illegal trafficking and distribution of firearms that the government would continue to enforce existing laws against illicit arms proliferation. He added that all recovered illegal weapons would be destroyed to prevent their re-circulation.
Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, DIG Johnson Babatunde Kokumo (Rtd.), said the Centre has recovered and destroyed nearly 19,000 illicit firearms since its establishment in 2021.
He noted that the figure reflects the Centre's sustained collaboration with security agencies in removing illegal weapons from circulation and supporting national efforts to improve public safety.
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Security