Here's a way to ease the burden:
Tell photog X that on Monday ( or tomorrow or now or whenever) you'll be taking inventory on his gear. Then tell him to lay it all out on a conference room table or similar convenient spot at that time.
Now, go in with your blank inventory sheet and start taking the inventory with his help. This way, you won't be hauling gear all over creation, you can get instant explanations on missing/broken gear and when you're done, they can put it away (you can help, of course).
I'd reccommed giving 48 hours notice because they know what's missing and will have time to track things down. Make sure everything is marked clearly and consistently so photogs aren't passing around gear to make up for a missing light head or broken stand. This is where an engraver is your friend.
Remember too, the point isn't to find a reason to punish, but to maintain proper gear levels for better news coverage. Those who are rough on gear or have lost something major may have to answer for it though- in whatever way you see fit (a talking to, letter in file, shaking a finger at them, etc.)
good luck!