On 10 October 2024, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) convened a high-level meeting with senior officials from the United States (US) Embassy and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (TT). The meeting was held at CARICOM IMPACS' headquarters based in TT and focused on enhancing regional cooperation to tackle transnational organised crime, with a particular emphasis on firearms trafficking and intelligence-sharing efforts.

The discussions placed significant attention on the efforts of the CARICOM Crime Gun Intelligence Unit (CGIU), which plays a vital role in identifying and dismantling transnational criminal networks involved in gun smuggling and firearms-related crimes. The CGIU works closely with national law enforcement agencies across the Region, utilising advanced technologies and intelligence-gathering strategies to stem the flow of illegal firearms, which is a major driver of violence and instability in the Caribbean.

In addition to addressing firearms trafficking, the dialogue also explored wider regional security challenges, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and cybercrime. CARICOM IMPACS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Member States through capacity building, intelligence coordination, and fostering strong partnerships with international allies, including the US.

"This meeting reaffirms our shared responsibility to bolster regional security and confront the evolving threats posed by transnational organised crime," said Ms. Tonya Ayow, Deputy Executive Director, CARICOM IMPACS. "By enhancing our collaboration with the US and our Member States, we are better positioned to disrupt criminal networks, reduce violent crime, and ensure the safety of citizens across the Caribbean," she added.

The high-level gathering featured key representatives, including:

• Her Excellency Candace Bond, Ambassador of the United States of America to Trinidad and Tobago
• His Excellency Roger F. Nyhus, Ambassador of the United States of America to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
• His Excellency Robert J. Faucher, Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Suriname
• Her Excellency Nicole Theriot, Ambassador of the United States of America to the Co-operative Republic of Guyana
• Mr. Scott Hansen, Political Economic Counselor, US Embassy
• Mr. Michael P. Graham, Assistant Regional Attaché, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
• The Honourable Fitzgerald Ethelbert Hinds, Minister of National Security, Trinidad and Tobago
• Mr. Keith Scotland SC, Minister in the Ministry of National Security, Trinidad and Tobago
• Ms. Tonya Ayow, Deputy Executive Director, CARICOM IMPACS
• Mr. Earl Harris, Assistant Director - Corporate Services, CARICOM IMPACS
• Mr. Terrance Roopchan, Manager (Ag.)/Investigator, CARICOM Crime Gun Intelligence Unit.

This meeting marks another step in CARICOM IMPACS’ ongoing efforts to fortify the Region’s security architecture through international cooperation and the proactive engagement of Member States.

CARICOM IMPACS remains committed to advancing initiatives that enhance intelligence-sharing, improve investigative capabilities, and disrupt the illicit activities of transnational criminal organisations.