An article in Britain’s Business Insider newspaper examined illegal arms trafficking in Europe, often labeled the “Ant Trade” because it relies on many individuals smuggling one gun apiece rather than making bulk shipments. This analysis reflects our view that poorly regulated national borders—especially inside the Schengen trade zone—will continue to enable the arms trade no matter what gun-control laws are passed by the European Commission.
The example of Mohammed Merah, who targeted French military and Jewish civilians in the Toulouse area, is instructive: He was able to purchase an AK-47 and an Uzi in the black markets that thrive in many suburbs. One estimate puts the number of machine guns circulating the suburbs at 4,000—a sign that no matter how restricted firearms are for law-abiding French citizens, they are still readily available to those with bad intentions.
