On January 27, 2016 inventory reports surfaced showing that more than 1, 300 badges, 165 firearms, and 598 cell phones belonging to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) were lost or stolen between 2012-2015. The badges belonged to employees from Customs and Border Protections, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Citizenship and Immigration Services. The majority of the missing firearms belonged to Customs and Border Protection.
A DHS spokesman did not refute the report’s findings.
Analyst comment:
Pinkerton assess that the missing government badges pose a significant threat to clients. These credentials could allow criminals and violent extremists to have freedom of movement through points of entry into the United States. The badges would most likely be used to aid in the smuggling of materials and personnel into the country. The threat also extends to the security of cargo being transported in and out of the country.
Clients are advised to report any suspicious packages to local law enforcement, and to not accept any items not listed on a shipping manifest.
