Financial Crime Threat Assessment: Arms Trafficking in The Netherlands

Introduction

The Netherlands is a significant hub for international trade, including the illicit arms trade. This report provides an overview of the characteristics and modus operandi of arms trafficking in the country.

Characteristics in The Netherlands

International Trade Hub

• The Netherlands plays a crucial role in the global illegal arms trade due to its strategic location and transport hubs.
• Its membership in the European Union facilitates the unhindered transfer of arms across borders, making it an attractive entry point for international arms traffickers.

Membership in the European Union

• EU membership allows for the free movement of goods, including arms, which can be exploited by traffickers.

Strategic Geographic Location

• The country’s setting and transport infrastructure make it a key transit point for illicit arms shipments entering Europe.

Modus Operandi

Origins of Arms

• Arms often originate from:
  • Germany
  • Belgium
  • Balkan countries

Offer of Recycled Firearms and 3D-Printed Arms

• There is a relatively large offer of recycled firearms and 3D-printed arms on the market.

Methods of Transportation and Storage

• Arms are mostly traded via parcel packages and road transport, stored in storage boxes.
• Traffickers often operate as part of criminal networks or smaller groups of arms dealers.

Extent of the Threat in The Netherlands

Estimated Number of Illegal Firearms

• Over 230,000 illegal firearms were estimated to be circulating in The Netherlands in 2017.

Increase in Illicit Possession and Trade Cases

• Police statistics show an increase in illicit possession and trade cases from:
  • 4,252 (2017) to over 6,500 (2021)
  • Approximately 37.9 cases per 100,000 population.