What does ACSI mean in FBI FILES

The Americas Counter Smuggling Initiative (ACSI) is a cooperative effort by the United States and international partners to target transnational criminal organizations engaged in illicit trafficking activities. This joint venture aims to disrupt and dismantle these networks, reduce the availability of their illicitly obtained or trafficked goods, and stem the flow of money, drugs, weapons, people, and other contraband that fuels these organizations.

ACSI focuses on targeting transnational criminal organizations engaged in activities such as drug smuggling, human trafficking, arms dealing, money laundering, counterfeiting and illegal logging.

Through collaborative efforts by participating countries, ACSI works toward disrupting the operations of criminal organizations that engage in illicit trafficking activities. This includes tracking down suspected criminals and their assets; enforcing laws related to smuggling activities; confiscating ill-gotten goods; detaining suspects for investigation; strengthening citizen awareness about illicit trafficking; increasing regional security cooperation; facilitating information sharing among law enforcement agencies; helping nations strengthen their border control mechanisms; promoting alternative livelihoods for communities vulnerable to illegal activities and more.

The United States leads the initiative but also collaborates with 30+ nations across Latin America and beyond including Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Colombia, Panama, Brazil and many others.

The Americas Counter Smuggling Initiative was first launched in 2011 with a multi-partner strategy focused on decreasing the prevalence of transnational crime through task forces composed of representatives from both U.S.-based government agencies as well as governments abroad. Since then it has consistently evolved to confront these complex problems more effectively.

Yes! Each year the U.S. Department of State hosts an annual meeting for all participants—law enforcement officers from different countries—to discuss progress made during previous years as well as plan for future initiatives focused on combatting global crime threats posed by organized crime syndicates. Additionally media campaigns have served as a means to further spread awareness about this initiative.

Yes! Part of combating global crime involves providing viable economic alternatives for communities vulnerable to being drawn into illegal economic activity due to lack of job opportunities or limited resources available locally. As such numerous socio-economic development programs have been established by collaborating governments throughout Latin America as part of the larger ACSI strategy.

Primarily funding comes from various federal government agencies in the United States such as Department of State’s Bureau for International Narcotics & Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). Contributions from additional partners also play an integral role in ensuring effective implementation of its strategies.

Of course! Individuals can contribute either financially or donate time dedicated toward mentoring potential victims who may become susceptible to falling victim to organized crime syndicates which fuel themselves primarily through transnational smuggling activity.