The Architecture of Transnational Arms Proliferation: Tracking the Illicit Flow of Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Triborder Region

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 10, No. 4, April 2019 | pp. 28–36

DOI: 10.46882/2019/GJPCS/100401

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: The Architecture of Transnational Arms Proliferation: Tracking the Illicit Flow of Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Triborder Region

Authors: Marcus T. Vance¹, Tariq H. Al-Sabahi²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Center for Development and Emergency Practice, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United Kingdom; ²Department of Political Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan

Abstract:
The unchecked proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) across porous international boundaries remains a primary structural driver of state fragmentation and urban violence in developing economies. This article tracks the clandestine distribution networks operating within the triborder regions of South America, focusing on how illicit arms flows adapt to state border controls. Utilizing a border-tracking framework combined with seized weapons classification data collected from 2016 to 2018, we examine the logistical networks connecting international syndicates to local urban militias. The empirical evidence demonstrates that transnational criminal cartels exploit gaps in inter-state intelligence sharing and weak maritime radar security to traffic military-grade equipment. Quantitative indicators reveal that border districts where customs patrols are uncoordinated between neighboring states face a 68% higher rate of localized firearm-related crime and black-market arms accumulation. The paper highlights the failure of unilateral, militarized border shutdowns to dismantle decentralized supply networks. We conclude that curbing illicit arms proliferation requires establishing a joint, synchronized intelligence clearinghouse alongside automated weapon serialization tracing protocols.

Keywords: Arms Proliferation; SALW; Border Security; Transnational Crime; Intelligence Sharing; Supply Networks

Manuscript Timeline: Received: September 02, 2018; Revised: November 22, 2018; Accepted: January 08, 2019; Published: April 18, 2019

Citation: Vance, M. T., & Al-Sabahi, T. H. (2019). The Architecture of Transnational Arms Proliferation: Tracking the Illicit Flow of Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Triborder Region. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 10(4), 28–36. DOI: 10.46882/2019/GJPCS/100401

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