Abuja — The ECOWAS Commission wishes to express its deep concern over reports of the illicit movement of sophisticated weapons and mercenary fighters across the region's borders, a situation largely attributable to the ongoing crisis in Libya and the recent conflict in Cote d'Ivoire.

This situation is very worrisome and portends grave danger to the stability of our region, particularly in countries emerging from conflicts and or experiencing internal unrests. Consequently, the ECOWAS Commission calls on all Member States to be extra vigilant in monitoring movements across their borders with a view to arresting perpetrators of crime and forestalling any act that could jeopardize the prevailing peace and tranquility in the region.

The situation also requires the strict implementation of the relevant provisions of the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Their Ammunition and Other Related Materials relating to inter-state cooperation and the strengthening of border controls.

The ECOWAS Commission equally appeals to citizens of the Community to be vigilant and to report to relevant authorities any suspicious movement, especially of weapons or mercenaries in order to contribute to safeguarding life and property within the Community.