ATF Louisville host press conference on combatting firearms trafficking to Mexico

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Louisville Field Division hosted a joint press conference to showcase recent efforts to combat the trafficking of firearms to Mexico. ATF was also joined by the IRS, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Louisville Metro Police Department and Jeffersontown Police Department.

"ATF is on the frontline in the fight against gun-related violence associated with organized gangs and drug trafficking organizations," said ATF Louisville Field Division Special Agent in Charge John Nokes. "These crimes present a grave threat to public safety, and our law enforcement partnerships are critical as we work together to stop firearms trafficking by criminal groups."

In response to the growing threat posed by Transnational Criminal Organizations and the administration's emphasis on combating them, ATF has been working swiftly and diligently with partners to effectively combat the flow of illegal firearms trafficked to Mexico.

Over the past four years, Cartels have infiltrated the United States through the southern border and are operating within our communities. These Cartels have established and expanded their networks throughout the United States to carry out their illicit activities such as, fentanyl trafficking and human smuggling.

Cartels rely on specific firearms to facilitate, expand and protect their criminal enterprise, including large caliber and/or belt fed rifles such as, the Ohio Ordinance M2 .50 caliber, FN M240 7.6mm, FN M249 5.56, and the Barrett M82 .50 semi-automatic rifle.

Under President Trump's and Attorney General Bondi's leadership, ATF has prevented nearly 9,700 firearms from falling into the hands of dangerous criminals or terrorist. From January 20 to May 1, 2025, ATF agents nationwide initiated 8,501 violent crime cases, arrested 1,912 criminals, seized a total of 10,592 firearms, 655,388 rounds of ammunition, 8,722 firearm parts, and 6,335 assorted explosives.

ATF is the only federal law enforcement agency whose mission is to reduce violent crime. While our mission is clear and concise, it is also immense and dangerous. And, as a small agency with just about 5,000 employees, we can only succeed with our local, state, and federal partners. These partnerships, including the U.S. Attorney's Offices, Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), other government agencies, state and local law enforcement, help to stem the flow of illegal firearms being trafficked to Mexico.

ATF is the federal agency with jurisdiction for investigating firearms, fires and crimes of arson. More information on ATF can be found at www.atf.gov

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