Laptops And Weapons Among Items Lost Or Stolen From MoD Last Year

Sixty laptops belonging to the Ministry of Defence went missing last year.

A further four desktop computers and 48 USB memory sticks were lost or stolen in 2017.

These details were released by the department in response to a Freedom of Information request.

There was no further information released about who the equipment belonged to but did say it treats information security as a "top priority".

Also included on the list of missing items was a Glock 17 pistol, which was recorded as allegedly stolen in Barbados.

A small number of munitions also appeared on the record as stolen.

Nia Griffith, Labour's Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, told the Sunday Mirror:

"In the face of increasing cyber warfare, the potential loss of sensitive information is extremely concerning.

"We need assurances that these devices have not fallen into the wrong hands and, where appropriate, the MoD must tighten guidance to prevent future such incidents."

The MoD told the paper:

"We have robust procedures to deter and prevent losses and thefts, whilst precautions like securely encrypting electronic devices ensure they cannot be accessed if they cannot be located."