Several South Florida lawmakers, led by U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, are urging the Trump administration to take immediate action to stop the illegal flow of weapons and ammunition from the United States to Haiti. In a letter signed by over 30 congressional colleagues, they highlight that approximately 90% of firearms bound for the Caribbean are shipped from Florida, with significant contributions from Miami River and Port Everglades.
The lawmakers stress that these illicit arms are empowering gangs that control over 90% of Port-au-Prince, leading to mass violence and significant civilian displacement. Recent reports indicate that gang violence surged after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, resulting in at least 1,520 deaths in just a few months this year. With nearly 75% of firearms recovered in the Caribbean traced back to the U.S., the lawmakers are advocating for enhanced cargo screening and international cooperation to tackle this urgent crisis.
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