Barbados Establishes Confiscation Unit: A Strategic Move in Asset Recovery

Barbados Takes Bold Steps in Asset Recovery

In a decisive move to combat organized crime and corruption, Barbados has announced plans to establish a Confiscation Unit within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Attorney General Dale Marshall made this announcement during the 2025 Annual General Meeting of the Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network for the Caribbean (ARIN-CARIB), emphasizing the nation’s commitment to exploring all avenues for asset recovery, management, and sharing.

Marshall highlighted that the introduction of this unit would empower Barbados to utilize the powers outlined in the Proceeds and Instrumentalities of Crime Act, instituted in 2019. “This Unit will lead the country’s efforts on implementing the range of powers found in the Proceeds and Instrumentalities of Crime Act,” Marshall stated, indicating the vital role this initiative plays in tackling criminal elements by confiscating illicit gains.

Sharing Information to Combat Transnational Crime

This new unit is part of a broader regional strategy to enhance trust and information sharing among various local and regional entities. Marshall pointed out that the current reluctance to share information has been a significant barrier in the fight against cross-border crime. Instead of treating information as something precious, Marshall argues, it should be shared to ensure effective policing and prevention of criminal activities that transcend borders.

The Deputy Director of the Regional Security System, Atlee Rodney, echoed Marshall’s sentiments, noting that organized crime continues to erode governance and trust in institutions across the Caribbean. The ARIN-CARIB network, which facilitates interagency collaboration, is pivotal in this fight, working to enhance capacity and technical skills within the region to deal effectively with crime.

The Essential Role of ARIN-CARIB in Regional Crime Management

With the ongoing threat of gang-related violence and the operational tactics of transnational criminal organizations, the establishment of the Confiscation Unit aligns with a broader regional effort led by ARIN-CARIB. As highlighted in previous discussions, this organization has made significant strides by mentoring member states on asset recovery and financial investigations, leading to the identification of millions in criminal assets.

The ARIN-CARIB network not only focuses on current methodologies but also aims to set a precedent for compliance and innovation in regional crime management. This proactive approach is critical as the Caribbean faces an increasing tide of crime and corruption, affecting community trust and economic stability.

Looking Ahead: A Unified Front Against Crime

As Barbados prepares to implement this Confiscation Unit, the need for a cohesive and collaborative approach to asset recovery and crime prevention becomes evident. By fostering inter-agency cooperation and regional partnerships, Barbados is positioning itself as a leader in countering organized crime and building a safer environment for its citizens. The establishment of this unit, with its roots in collaborative practices and shared information, is a promising step toward securing a more transparent and lawful future in the Caribbean.