In a decisive move to strengthen border security, the Barbados Customs and Excise Department has initiated an intensive five-day training program for 20 officers focused on identifying and intercepting illicit firearms. The specialized course, launched in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), represents a critical step in regional efforts to curb the escalating threat of small arms trafficking across the Caribbean.
Acting Comptroller of Customs Cheryl-Ann Cumberbatch emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, ‘The current surge in firearm usage necessitates enhanced detection and interdiction capabilities within our customs operations. This training arrives at a pivotal moment for our national security framework.’
The curriculum, delivered through the WCO’s Project BOLT initiative, combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises covering international legal frameworks, weapon identification techniques, smuggling methodologies, and post-recovery firearm management. Notably, this marks the first WCO-led training in the English-speaking Caribbean utilizing regionally certified instructors through the organization’s train-the-trainer program.
Duncan Potter, Project BOLT coordinator for WCO, highlighted the program’s strategic importance: ‘This represents a fundamental advancement for Barbados’ border security capabilities. Our organization remains committed to delivering capacity-building initiatives that empower members to protect their societies.’
The training supports implementation of the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap, a multinational agreement Barbados has endorsed to reduce weapons trafficking. Officials directly linked the initiative to combating rising gun violence fueled by illegal firearms, which Comptroller Cumberbatch identified as ‘a significant threat to public safety and national security.’
The program reinforces existing collaboration between customs authorities and the Barbados Police Service through improved intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement operations. Project BOLT operates in partnership with CARICOM IMPACS and receives support from the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.