Belize Among 20 Nations in Massive Gun and Drug Crackdown

A six-week INTERPOL-led operation across 20 countries, including Belize, resulted in 8,701 arrests and the seizure of more than 3,300 illegal firearms and 56 tonnes of drugs. The massive international crackdown exposed just how connected the region’s criminal networks have become.

With the backing of the Organization of American States (OAS) and funding by the European Union, Operation Orca XI was conducted between October and November 2025. Officers also recovered nearly 200,000 rounds of ammunition, 210 vehicles, and US$256,025 in cash.

In its press release today, the OAS said authorities involved targeted the same trafficking routes used by gangs and organised crime groups to move weapons, drugs and people across borders.

Belize participated alongside 19 other countries from Central America, South America and the Caribbean. The other countries included Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, and Uruguay.

“This is what success looks like when hemispheric coordination and world-class technical and operational capacity join forces: thousands of firearms off the streets, drugs seized, and safer communities,” said OAS Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin. “Operation Orca XI proves that international cooperation and information sharing get results, and our security frameworks must continue delivering. The OAS stands ready to continue supporting member states with partners like INTERPOL

“INTERPOL’s commitment remains to support law enforcement agencies with the intelligence, tools and coordination they need to stay ahead of these evolving threats,” added INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza.