A security expert, Seyi Babaeko, said that the recovery of illegal firearms from suspected criminals does not automatically translate into a significant or sustained reduction in crime rates.

Mr Babaeko, the managing director of Absolute Security and Advance Protocol Ltd, said this on Tuesday in Lagos.

According to him, the recovery of illegal firearms by the police and other security agencies is a commendable step and reflects active law enforcement efforts.

“The fact that such weapons were in circulation in the first place highlights the depth of the insecurity challenge. Crime is a multi-layered issue influenced not just by access to weapons but also by poverty, unemployment, lack of education, drug abuse, weak justice systems, and poor policing infrastructure.

“Gun recovery may lead to short-term disruption of criminal activities; the long-term reduction in crime requires a broader and more holistic approach that tackles the root causes of criminal behaviour.

“While the news is positive, it is only a small part of a much larger puzzle,” he said.

The expert said that to effectively address the proliferation of firearms, the nation must adopt a multi-pronged strategy.

“Strengthening border security and surveillance is critical; most illegal arms come through porous borders. There must be stricter laws regulating the ownership, sale, and transfer of firearms, along with the enforcement of existing laws.

“Engaging local communities to report suspicious activities can help in early detection and interception of arms movement. Disarmament programmes, that is, the voluntary gun return or amnesty programmes, can help recover arms from non-state actors and civilians. Educating citizens, especially youths, on the dangers of illegal arms and violence is essential to changing mindsets,” he said.

Mr Babaeko said that the key to curbing demand for weapons was for the government to tackle the root causes by addressing the socioeconomic factors that push people toward crime, like poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunities.

“Without addressing the foundational issues, the cycle of gun proliferation and crime may only continue under different guises,” he said.

(NAN)