Suriname has taken a decisive step in combating the illicit trafficking of firearms, a severe threat undermining public safety, security, and the rule of law. As a significant transit hub for illicit drugs and money laundering, Suriname's porous borders and dense jungle pose unique law enforcement challenges. Linked to international criminal networks , the proliferation of illegal firearms exacerbates drug trafficking, illegal mining, human trafficking, and environmental crimes.
From 11 to 13 June 2024, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), through its Global Firearms Programme, in collaboration with CARICOM IMPACS and with the support of Germany , held a critical firearms training course in Paramaribo. This initiative aimed to bolster the skills of Suriname’s Public Prosecutor's Office, the Directorate of National Security, the Police Corps (KPS), Customs, and the Coast Guard in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting firearms trafficking. This initiative contributes directly to the implementation of the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap.
The training opened with remarks from key figures including Leonardo Lara, acting Chief of the UNODC Firearms Trafficking Section; Callixtus Joseph, Regional Crime and Security Strategy Coordinator at CARICOM IMPACS; Shivanand Ramlall, Director of the Directorate of National Security; Brian Isaacs, Chief of the Suriname Police Corps; and Attorney General Garcia Paragsingh. Participants in the opening underscored that illicit firearms trafficking is a global threat that fuels violence and destabilizes societies.
The sessions on day one highlighted the global scope of firearms trafficking and insights from the Caribbean Firearms Study 2023. Participants explored the current landscape of illicit firearms trafficking in the Caribbean, examined regional countermeasures, and shared national experiences in transnational investigations. Discussions covered the formation of joint investigation teams and the role of the Internet and Darknet in facilitating illegal firearms trade. Practical exercises on identifying firearms, parts, components, and ammunition provided participants with critical skills to address these issues effectively.
The second day focused on advanced methods for detecting illegal firearms, emphasizing tools and techniques for identification. Participants engaged with sessions on information management, risk profiling, and the crucial role of customs services. National customs risk profiling systems, SEESAC’s firearms threat assessment, and strategies from the World Customs Organization (WCO) were explored. INTERPOL showcased its tools for detecting firearms in the Caribbean. Practical exercises on identifying concealment methods and best practices from Suriname’s perspective, as well as training on using X-ray devices for detecting firearms, enhanced participants' technical capabilities.
The third day centered on investigating and prosecuting firearms-related crimes. Sessions included investigative approaches to firearms trafficking, good practices, and lessons learned from Suriname. Participants delved into the role of firearms as evidence, including tracing and ballistic analysis, and explored regional tools such as the Intelligence Guns Unit. Strategies from the ATF for effective tracing and SEACOP’s methods for combating illicit firearms trafficking and maritime threats were discussed. The training also covered special investigation techniques in transnational joint operations, contrasting joint investigation teams with transnational investigations. The day concluded with an overview of Suriname’s procedures for international criminal cooperation and legal assistance.
Looking ahead, participants expressed their appreciation for the valuable training and the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across various agencies. The training facilitated the exchange of ideas and the discussion of common challenges, fostering a spirit of cooperation. There was strong interest in participating in future UNODC training sessions and workshops to further enhance capacities in detecting and mitigating firearms trafficking. This initiative aligns with Suriname’s broader efforts to improve public safety and security and supports the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development's Target 16.4.
