Haiti urges states to enforce arms embargo as gangs keep importing weapons
Haiti called on UN member states to enforce the arms embargo and stop weapons trafficking, warning that gangs use firearms and ammunition brought in from abroad. At a Security Council meeting, Haiti said security operations alone would not resolve the crisis; the council has renewed sanctions, but a UN panel says the embargo is regularly violated.
Bottom line — The UN estimates 270,000 to 500,000 illegal firearms are circulating in Haiti.
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Anadolu Agency reports that a Security Council resolution adopted on 14 October calls for urgent measures to halt weapons trafficking into Haiti.
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Caribbean National Weekly reports that the council renewed its sanctions framework for 13 months; measures include an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze.
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According to Caribbean National Weekly, nine individuals and two groups are currently subject to UN sanctions.
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The UN human rights office estimates 270,000 to 500,000 illegal firearms are in circulation; Haiti does not manufacture firearms or ammunition.
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UNODC says most trafficked firearms and ammunition originate in the United States, with shipments moving by sea and other routes.
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Caribbean National Weekly reports that more than 3,000 people were killed and over 1,500 injured between October 2025 and April 2026.