ATF: Report Explosives Theft or Loss

• Posted on Apr 1, 2021

Any person who has knowledge of the theft or loss of any explosive materials from their stock must report such theft or loss within 24 hours of discovery to ATF and to appropriate local authorities. (Regulations at 27 CFR § 555.30, implementing section 842(k), require that the report of theft or loss be made by telephone and in writing to ATF).

Upon discovery of any theft or loss of any of your explosive materials:

1. First, call the nearest ATF office or the toll free number 1-888-283-2662 for information on the ATF office located nearest you. ATF will work with the local law enforcement authorities investigating the theft. They can also assist in the preparation of the Theft / Loss Report for submission.
2. Second, call your local law enforcement office to report the theft or loss. Contacting the local law enforcement authorities is essential to the quick recovery of explosives taken in a crime. If the explosives are lost or missing, you should make it clear to the authorities that there is no evidence of a crime and that the disposition of these explosive materials is unknown / unrecorded.
3. Third, complete the report form (ATF Form 5400.5) and attach any additional sheets or invoices necessary to provide the required information and mail or fax it to the ATF office located nearest you. Be sure to submit the original form(s) to ATF and retain copies for your records.

Please note that it is not uncommon to find that you sold explosive materials previously reported as stolen or still have them in inventory. If you report explosive materials as stolen inaccurately, it hampers law enforcement’s ability to solve the crime or may jeopardize prosecution. Please immediately correct inaccurate reports.

The U.S. Bomb Data Center staff is available to assist with any questions you may have regarding the reporting of theft or loss of explosive materials. Contact the U.S. Bomb Data Center at 1-800-461-8841.

ATF Form 5400.30 (Type 60 coupon)

In the event of the loss, theft or destruction of an ATF Form 5400.30 (Type 60 coupon) upon discovery, the coupon holder should immediately contact ATF at: 1-888-ATF-BOMB (1-888-283-2662) and do so within 24 hours of discovery.

Last Reviewed March 11, 2021