Nigeria faces new security threat as bandits turn to rocket launchers

Nigeria’s security crisis has taken a new turn as armed bandits increasingly gain access to sophisticated weapons, including rocket launchers.

According to DAILY POST, the Sokoto State Police Command recovered at least two rocket launchers and other weapons from bandits who attacked Tsabre Village in Isa Local Government Area on October 2.

The development has renewed concerns over arms-smuggling networks, porous borders and the growing financial strength of criminal groups operating across the North-West and North-Central.

A 2025 arrest also highlighted the scale of trafficking, with suspected arms dealer Shehu Ali Kachalla allegedly admitting to smuggling more than 450 rifles and 8,000 rounds of ammunition into Nigeria.

Ransom payments are also believed to be strengthening bandits financially. An SBM intelligence report said N7.78 billion was paid to kidnappers between July 2025 and June 2026.

A corps member identified as Mary said: “Before now, I used to see corps members travelling in their khaki uniforms, especially their headgear, because they wanted to be identified as corps members. But the situation has changed now.”