Over 200 guns seized at Kingston Port in massive firearms bust

A major investigation is underway after Jamaican and U.S. authorities intercepted what is being described as the largest illegal firearms shipment in recent history—more than 220 guns and tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition—at a port warehouse in Kingston.

The massive cache—believed to have originated in the United States—was uncovered earlier this week during a joint operation by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID), and the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA). According to multiple sources, the weapons were concealed inside an industrial-size water heater located at a warehouse on Industrial Terrace in west Kingston.

Radio Jamaica News reported that four additional water heaters were part of the same shipment, which investigators believe may also contain contraband. At press time, the counting of ammunition was still underway, with lawmen estimating the final tally could exceed 10,000 rounds.

The JCF had not issued an official statement up to late Wednesday, but law enforcement insiders described the seizure as unprecedented in scale. Most of the weapons recovered were pistols, though the haul also included high-powered rifles and firearm accessories.

This marks the second major gun seizure in just under two months and continues a pattern of increased interceptions at Jamaican ports. On March 18, a joint security team uncovered 24 pistols, six rifles, and over 100 rounds of ammunition at a separate warehouse on Marcus Garvey Drive. Between December and March, the JCF and JCA seized 148 illegal firearms and about 8,000 rounds of ammunition in similar operations.

The Jamaica Customs Agency has pointed to major improvements in port security since assuming full responsibility for non-intrusive cargo inspections in July 2024.

Earlier this year, the JCA issued a direct warning to smugglers, stating that its successful interdictions underscore the agency’s “relentless pursuit of national security and its ongoing efforts to disrupt the illegal arms trade.”

“These seizures come after Jamaica Customs assumed full responsibility for non-intrusive cargo inspections in July 2024. With enhanced oversight, advanced cargo inspection technology, and intelligence-driven strategies, the agency has significantly strengthened its ability to detect and prevent illicit shipments,” the agency said.

The JCA added that the most recent gun finds demonstrate both the strength of its modern inspection systems and the commitment of its personnel.

“With cutting-edge cargo inspection technology and collaboration with local and international law enforcement, our message is clear: ‘Send food and not weapons. If you attempt to smuggle weapons through our ports, we will find them,’” the agency said.

Authorities are expected to provide further details on the record as the investigation develops.