In a recent development in the Dominican Republic, authorities have intercepted a significant cache of arms and ammunition in a shipment originating from Miami, destined for Haiti. Officials reported the confiscation of a substantial haul, including 36,000 cartridges, 23 firearms, and over two dozen rifle and pistol magazines.
Additionally, the seizure included a submachine gun and a magazine for a .50-caliber rifle, as stated by the country’s customs office.
The authorities in the Dominican Republic have launched an investigation into the incident, collaborating with international bodies such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Interestingly, this is not an isolated incident, as Dominican agents recently uncovered 37 firearms at the same port located in the Santo Domingo capital.
These seizures are occurring amidst escalating gang violence in neighboring Haiti, especially in the capital city of Port-au-Prince. This turmoil has resulted in the displacement of approximately 25,000 individuals over the last fortnight, according to data from the International Organization for Migration. The situation in Haiti is concerning, with last year’s reports indicating over 5,600 fatalities linked to gang violence, which has left more than one million people homeless over recent years, as highlighted by the United Nations.
The Caribbean has seen a troubling increase in illegal firearms contributing to higher crime rates. It is estimated that the lion’s share of the weapons, about 90%, are smuggled in from the United States. This illicit trade fuels violence and instability in the region.
Moreover, authorities in Jamaica have tackled a similar situation, apprehending a truck driver from Columbus, Georgia. This individual, who holds dual citizenship in the U.S. and Jamaica, was arrested in connection to trafficking prohibited weapons. Last month, Jamaican agents seized 66 firearms along with over 4,500 rounds of ammunition at a port in Kingston.
The unfolding events underscore a broader issue of illegal arms trafficking in the Caribbean, prompting international cooperation to address and mitigate the crisis.
