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Spike in Weapons & Ammo Seizures at Michigan Ports of Entry

Release Date
Wed, 09/02/2020

More than 80 firearms seized since COVID-19

Guns seized since March 21 at Michigan Ports of Entry
Seized weapons

DETROIT— U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Detroit Field Office has interdicted more than 80 firearms since the implementation of essential-travel in late March as the result of current health and safety concerns associated with the Coronavirus pandemic.

From March 21, to August 21, 2020, CBP officers across all ports of entry under the purview of the Detroit Field Office have seized 81 firearms and over 4,000 rounds of ammunition. In comparison, during the entire fiscal year 2019, CBP officers seized 62 firearms.

Ports of entry in Michigan include Detroit Metropolitan Airport, The Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel in Detroit, the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron, and the International Bridge in Sault Ste. Marie.

Weapons seized since March 21
Weapons seized since March 21

“Of the firearms seized, CBP officers intercepted 58 pistols, 12 revolvers, 7 rifles, and 4 shotguns,” said Director of Field Operations Christopher Perry. “The men and women of CBP remain diligent in protecting our communities from illicit firearms and other dangerous contraband attempting to exploit our borders.”

All travelers are reminded that current export regulations issued by the Department of State require travelers to file Electronic Export Information (EEI) for temporary export of personally owned firearms via the Automated Export System (AES) prior to departure from the United States. Additional information on transporting firearms across the border can be found here.

The border remains open for essential travel and trade only. For the latest CBP COVID-19 updates and announcements, visit www.cbp.gov/coronavirus.

Video and Images of weapons can be found on Twitter @CBPGreatLakes and @DFODetroit

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021