SEESAC supported the development of Frontex handbook on firearms for border guards and customs officers

Firearms Handbook video

Illegal weapons play a key role in many of the most violent crimes in our societies. This is why combatting  firearms related-crimes is one of the key priorities for all law enforcement authorities in their duty to protect EU citizens and tackle serious and organized crime.

To effectively fight against criminal networks, law enforcement officers need to constantly improve their skills and stay up-to-date with the latest information on the ways criminals operate.

Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, developed the Handbook on Firearms for Border Guards and Customs Officers in cooperation with the border guard and customs community and EU and international partners to help national border guard and customs authorities in EU to fight arms-related crime. SEESAC supported the development of this Handbook from the very beginning by providing expert advice.

The Handbook provides the latest information on firearms trafficking, tactics and equipment during border checks. It builds on the experience and expertise of EU and international partners. It contains information related to firearms, their parts and ammunition, associated documentation and the phenomenon of firearm trafficking itself.

The initiative was supported and guided by the European Commission, both DG HOME and DG TAXUD, and co-led by the European Firearms Expert Group, Poland, Slovenia, and Romania. CCWP, Europol, Cepol, Interpol, UNODC, WCO, OSCE, SEESAC and EUBAM also supported development of the handbook.

The Handbook was developed under the umbrella of the European Multidisciplinary Platform against Criminal Threats (EMPACT) FIREARMS, led by Spain. It brings together police and law enforcement authorities of the EU Member States, European agencies, and international organizations to strengthen Europe’s borders and internal security.