Disrupting the Flow: U.S.-Caribbean Efforts to Combat Illicit Firearms Trafficking

The steady stream of firearms from the United States into the Caribbean, particularly fueling instability in Haiti and impacting regional security, represents a persistent and evolving challenge. Recent events, exemplified by sustained collaboration between U.S. law enforcement and Caribbean partners, demonstrate a determined strategy to disrupt this illicit trade. This article examines the dynamics of this cross-border effort, detailing the historical context, key stakeholders, and evolving tactics employed in the last six months, offering a nuanced assessment of the ongoing struggle against illicit firearms trafficking.The proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the Caribbean has historically been intertwined with broader geopolitical trends. Following the end of the Cold War, many nations struggled to account for surplus military equipment, while simultaneously, organized crime networks capitalized on these vulnerabilities. Treaty obligations such as the Inter-American Convention Against the Crime of Kidnapping and Illegal Traffic of Persons (IATCP) and the Cartagena Agreement, a regional framework addressing transnational crime, have provided a basis for cooperation, but enforcement remains a complex undertaking. The legacy of US involvement in regional conflicts – particularly in Haiti – has shaped relationships, sometimes fostering distrust alongside opportunities for joint security initiatives. “The nature of transnational crime is changing rapidly,” explains Dr. Evelyn Hayes, a specialist in Caribbean security policy at the Atlantic Council. “We’re seeing increasingly sophisticated networks utilizing maritime routes and exploiting weak governance structures.”

Key Stakeholders and Motivations

Several key actors contribute to this multifaceted effort. The United States, through agencies like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), focuses on preventing the initial export of firearms and investigating trafficking networks. Caribbean nations, including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago, grapple with the immediate impact of firearms violence on their communities and economies and seek to bolster their domestic law enforcement capabilities. Haiti, deeply mired in political instability and widespread gang violence, represents both the origin and destination of a significant proportion of these illicit weapons, highlighting a particularly challenging operational environment. “The situation in Haiti is incredibly complex,” states Javier Morales, Director of the CARICOM Crime Gun Intelligence Unit (CGIU) based in Trinidad and Tobago. “It’s not simply about stopping the flow of guns; it’s about addressing the root causes of instability and supporting the Haitian government’s ability to regain control.”

Furthermore, international organizations play a crucial role. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) provides technical assistance and training, while the Department of State facilitates mentoring programs and intelligence sharing. Private sector actors, including shipping companies and freight forwarders, are increasingly targeted as conduits in the supply chain. Data from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) shows a consistent increase in export controls directed towards the Caribbean, reflecting heightened awareness and a proactive approach to disrupting illicit trade. A recent BIS report indicates a 15% surge in investigations related to firearms exports to the Dominican Republic and Haiti in the past year alone.

Recent Developments (Past Six Months)

Over the past six months, the U.S.-Caribbean partnership has seen a marked intensification of operations. The successful dismantling of the Dominican-led criminal network in February 2026, seizing a significant quantity of fentanyl and firearms, showcased the collaborative potential of agencies like the DOJ and DHS. The Jamaican Customs Agency’s record-breaking seizure of 238 firearms in May 2025, aided by Department of State training in x-ray detection, demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted intelligence and specialized skills. The interception of the container from Miami to Haiti in February 2025, containing military-style rifles, underlines the persistent threat posed by sophisticated trafficking schemes.

Notable legal cases further solidify this trend. The sentencing of Joel Rodriguez in January 2026, following a BIS investigation, and the arrests of Juhisani Angol and Victor Rodriguez in December 2025 and November 2025, respectively, illustrate the commitment to holding traffickers accountable under U.S. law. More recently, the case of Shem Wayne Alexander in August 2025, involving firearms concealed in sports equipment, demonstrates a shift towards exploiting novel concealment methods. These cases demonstrate a coordinated effort to penetrate criminal networks across multiple jurisdictions.

Future Impact & Insight

Short-term projections suggest continued collaboration between U.S. and Caribbean law enforcement, with a likely focus on bolstering intelligence sharing and developing more sophisticated detection technologies. The ongoing instability in Haiti remains a critical vulnerability, and sustained engagement will be crucial. Long-term, the success of these efforts hinges on addressing the underlying socioeconomic conditions that fuel violence and contribute to the appeal of illicit firearms. The development of stronger governance structures in Haiti, coupled with sustained international support, is paramount. “The issue isn’t just about law enforcement; it’s about building sustainable security,” argues Professor David Chen, a geopolitical analyst at Georgetown University. “Without addressing the root causes, any gains made through law enforcement will be ultimately eroded.”

Looking ahead, the increasing use of digital technology by criminal organizations, including encrypted communications and online marketplaces, presents a significant challenge. The ability of U.S. agencies to effectively track and disrupt these online networks will be a key determinant of future success. The situation in Haiti remains precarious, with continued gang violence significantly complicating efforts to implement lasting solutions.

Ultimately, the U.S.-Caribbean partnership represents a vital, albeit complex, undertaking. It compels a fundamental reflection: can sustained external intervention truly stabilize a region plagued by internal conflict and structural vulnerabilities? We invite readers to share their perspectives on this ongoing challenge and the potential for a truly sustainable approach to regional security.