17 arrested, 22 guns seized in move against gun smuggling at ports

Seventeen persons have been arrested in a series of operations led by the police Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division and the Jamaica Customs Agency to curb gun smuggling through Jamaica's ports.

Between July 1 and October 12, 2024, the joint team seized 22 firearms, including two rifles and 20 pistols, and intercepted 1,274 rounds of assorted ammunition, a police statement said Saturday. 

Of those arrested, eight have been charged with offences ranging from trafficking in prohibited weapon to possession of a prohibited weapon, and their cases have been brought before the courts.

"These recent seizures and arrests demonstrate the resolve of FNID to remain focused and resolute in its approach to detecting, deterring, disrupting, and ultimately dismantling criminal networks involved in smuggling firearms into Jamaica," the police said. 

The agency pledged to continue working with local, regional, and international partners to bring offenders to justice and prevent further trafficking into the country.

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