A significant security breach has been reported at an Iraqi military base in western Iraq, where more than 200 weapons, including AK-47 assault rifles and pistols, have gone missing. This alarming revelation comes from a source within an Iraqi security agency who disclosed the information to local media on Thursday.

The anonymous source revealed that the theft involved over 200 Kalashnikov assault rifles and 16 pistols. “More than 200 Kalashnikovs and 16 guns have been stolen from the Iraqi military base,” the source stated, withholding specific details about the exact location of the regiment or the circumstances surrounding the theft.

The disappearance of these weapons came to light after a military unit filed a complaint, citing a consistent decrease in the number of firearms, particularly Kalashnikovs and pistols, over time. In response, a committee has been established and dispatched to the base to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

According to the source, the thefts occurred gradually over an extended period, approximately one year, and were carried out in stages. “The robbery took place over a long period of time, about a year, at different times,” the source explained, suggesting that the theft was systematic and went unnoticed until the numbers became significantly lower.

This incident has raised serious concerns about security protocols and oversight within the Iraqi military, especially in regions where armed forces are crucial in maintaining stability and combating insurgent groups. The loss of such a large quantity of weapons poses a significant risk, potentially fueling further instability if the arms fall into the hands of unauthorized or hostile entities.

The committee assigned to investigate the case is expected to review security measures at the base, including inventory management, access control, and surveillance systems. The findings of this investigation will be crucial in understanding how the theft occurred and in preventing similar incidents in the future.

As the investigation continues, the Iraqi military and security forces face mounting pressure to recover the missing weapons and hold those responsible accountable. There is an urgent call for enhanced security measures across all military installations to prevent such breaches and safeguard national security assets.