Insecurity Caused by Unknown Gunmen and Disruption of Business Activities of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs): A Literature Review

Abstract

The activities attributed to unknown gunmen constitute a growing security concern with potential consequences for the continuity, investment capacity, sustainability and operational performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While existing studies have established broad relationships between insecurity and business outcomes, limited attention has been given to the interconnected effects of unknown gunmen activities on SMEs in literature. This study examined the available relevant empirical literature on the disruptive impact of insecurity caused by activities attributed to unknown gunmen on business activities, investment decisions, sustainability and operational performance of SMEs. The literature was thematically analysed to identify converging patterns, relationships and emerging directions. The findings indicate that insecurity restricts mobility, reduces patronage and operating hours, damages business assets, increases operating costs and discourages investment and expansion. These interconnected effects subsequently weaken SME sustainability and operational performance. The study concludes that sustained insecurity can undermine the economic functions of SMEs and calls for context-specific security, socioeconomic and business resilience measures.