A major investigation has been launched after nearly 13,000 licensed firearms issued for the protection of crops and private property were reported missing across Sri Lanka, triggering fears that some of the weapons may have been diverted to criminal networks. Official data shows that out of 25,064 firearms permits granted between 1995 and 2024, a total of 12,971 permits could not be accounted for in recent assessments.
The discrepancy was revealed through a comparison of quarterly reports submitted by District Secretariats, which indicated a significant reduction in the number of valid permits as of December 31, 2024. Authorities say the decline reflects permits that cannot be traced, raising concerns about whether the corresponding firearms remain in lawful possession.
Investigators also found that 7,125 firearm permits issued to individuals had not been renewed by the end of 2024, despite legal requirements mandating renewal for continued possession or use. Under the country’s Gun Ordinance, maintaining or using a firearm without a valid permit constitutes a violation of the law.
Sources from the Ministry of Defence confirmed that security agencies are now examining whether any of the firearms originally issued for agricultural and property protection may have found their way into the underworld or other organized gangs. The probe is expected to include verification of ownership records, field inspections, and coordination with law enforcement units to track missing weapons.
The discovery has raised broader concerns about regulatory oversight, record-keeping, and the long-term monitoring of civilian firearm licenses issued over nearly three decades, with officials warning that unresolved gaps could pose risks to public security if the weapons remain untraced.
