Honduran army admits theft of grenade launchers

Asia Bulletin (IANS) Thursday 9th February, 2012

The Honduran armed forces acknowledged Wednesday that 22 grenade launchers were stolen from an armoury in 2010.

By itself, the launcher "does not represent a lethal danger", the military said in a statement, explaining that the weapon is not usable without a sight and a warhead.

Tegucigalpa daily El Heraldo reported Tuesday that 22 RPG-7 launchers and their accompanying ordnance were stolen in October 2010. The RPG-7 can destroy tanks and other armored vehicles, the newspaper said.

Sgt. Luis Alberto Sanchez has been held since June 2011 on charges connected with the theft of the launchers, the military said.

Recent years have also witnessed thefts from the arsenals of the National Police, now undergoing a purge after numerous cops were implicated in crimes such as drug trafficking, extortion and even murder.

--IANS/EFE

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