British troops investigated over smuggling stolen guns to the UK

[cal04]

Source: The Independent

British soldiers are under investigation over the theft of a weapons cache in Iraq. The Ministry of Defence launched an inquiry after troops attempted to smuggle the weapons back to Britain.

The discovery of the weapons, stolen from an Iraqi police station and believed to be one of the largest hauls uncovered, has fuelled growing concerns that weapons confiscated by British troops in Iraq and Afghanistan are being brought back illegally to the UK and could get into the hands of criminals.

Fears that weapons from war zones could inflame Britain's growing gun crime problems have prompted high-level talks between the Home Office and the Ministry of Defence. Customs and MoD police have stepped up inspections of military bases and convoys, with RAF bases and military ports being targeted as part of a fresh attempt by the Government to restrict the supply of guns.

(snip)
The number of guns involved in the latest investigation is understood to run into double figures, with several soldiers suspected of involvement. Mr Murphy admitted that it is a "live investigation with the MoD" which could result in courts martial.


Read more: http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/crime/article3255683.ece

[derby378]

1. So much for gun control in the UK...

Hey, when you outlaw guns in a particular nation, the guns still get in. You may never see them, never hear of them, but trust me, they are still there nonetheless.

[RaleighNCDUer]

2. I am shocked

that Blackwater let them get their hands on those weapons first.