NICARAGUA: BLUE LANTERN 050056562

UNCLAS MANAGUA 002265 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS STATE FOR PM/DTCC - ADAM ARNETT E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETTC KOMC NU SUBJECT: NICARAGUA: BLUE LANTERN 050056562 REF: SECSTATE 118429 ¶1. On September 20, Econoff and ARSO met with Salvador Luna, owner of Armeria Magnum, at his store located in Centro Comercial, a large shopping center in Managua. In response to Reftel questions, Luna told Emboffs that he founded Armeria Magnum in 2000. Before then, Luna had worked for many years as a marksmanship trainer. He still runs a separate target range and training facility. (Note: RSO personnel and local guards train at Luna's facility. End Note.) Luna told Emboffs that a business partner operates a second Armeria Magnum store in Matagalpa. Armeria Magnum has ordered 300 revolvers from Century Arms, but Luna said he would take delivery of only 100 revolvers this year. ¶2. Armeria Magnum is authorized by the National Police to import and sell firearms. The sector is closely regulated by the Nicaraguan Government, Luna told Emboffs. There are only four other firearms retailers in the country. In addition to these retailers, to whom he may sell wholesale, Luna sells to individuals who provide evidence that they are authorized by the National Police to carry a firearm. Requirements include a psychological evaluation, background check, and weapons familiarization training. Luna reported that in 2006 he sold approximately 120 Israeli-made 9mm pistols and 150 Turkish-made shotguns. He was able to show electronic and paper records documenting these sales. ¶3. The store is protected 24 hours a day by an armed security guard employed directly by Armeria Magnum. Guards employed by the shopping center provide additional security, and a police station is located 200 meters away. The storefront is made of glass. Firearms are displayed in unlocked cases. Luna acknowledged that there is no alarm system. (Comment: ARSO suggested that Luna install a metal curtain to improve security at his store; however, ARSO believes current security satisfies minimum requirements. End Comment.) In post's assessment, Armeria Magnum is a reliable recipient of United States Munitions List (USML) items. TRIVELLI