Publication

This paper analyzes illicit arms flows into and within Somalia’s south central region, which are facilitated by 1) the deliberate diversion of state supplies to non-state groups; 2) low police and military retention rates; and 3) a steady influx of foreign weapons and equipment that are sent directly to different actors. The paper also examines how illicit arms flows are measured, primarily by focusing on the prominent role of seizure data and price monitoring mechanisms.