ATF, DC Safe Task Force surpass 2,000 firearm recoveries

WASHINGTON -ATF, in conjunction with the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force has seized more than 2,000 firearms from criminals, to include large capacity ammunition feeding devices, since the operation began in August 2025.The task force has made a total of 17,056 arrests, including 35 for homicide, 3,433 for controlled substances, 1,702 for firearms violations, and 52 for sex offenses.

Of those arrested, 700 were juveniles, including 134 who had firearms seized. Also, 96 of those arrested were known gang members. These enforcement actions reflect a sustained commitment to reducing violent crime and removing dangerous weapons from D.C. neighborhoods.

"Removing 2,000 crime guns from the hands of violent offenders is not just a statistic; it's a clear demonstration of ATF's focus on violent criminals, not law-abiding gun owners," said ATF Director Rob Cekada. "We will continue to drive investigations forward, shut down illegal trafficking, and protect American communities."

"Removing more than 2,000 illegal firearms from the streets of our nation's capital is more than just a significant milestone," said United States Marshals Service Director Gadyaces S. Serralta. "This is exactly what President Trump asked us to do, and we are excelling in that mission. I have no doubt this has saved countless lives and helped restore safety to this beautiful city. I also want to recognize the tremendous partnership and support of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the leadership of Rob Cekada. Their dedication and collaboration have been instrumental in this effort. I offer my sincere gratitude and congratulations to all who have worked, and continue to work, so diligently to bring peace and safety to this community."

The Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force surge was initiated in early August 2025 at the direction of President Trump, with U.S. Marshals Service Director Gadyaces S. Serralta leading a partnership of more than 3,100 personnel from 28 agencies conducting enforcement operations in all eight wards in the District.

Composed of federal and local law enforcement, as well as the National Guard, the Task Force is focused on arresting violent criminals, clearing warrants, seizing firearms, and locating missing children. The Task Force has located or recovered 27 missing children since the start of the operation.

This operation reflects each agency's commitment to the Task Force's coordinated enforcement efforts and its mission to identify, apprehend, and hold accountable those who pose a threat to public safety.

One year in, the message is clear: violent criminals will be found, arrested, and held accountable. No matter how long it takes. The Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force will not stop until every neighborhood in the nation's capital is safe.

Anyone with information about violent crimes, firearms crimes, or wanted fugitives across the nation and in Washington D.C. is urged to come forward immediately through the ATF tip line by calling 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), submitting anonymously at www.atf.gov/contact/atf-tips , or call USMS at 1-877-WANTED2.

ATF protects American communities from violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives, and acts of arson. Through crime gun intelligence, forensic analysis, and relentless investigation, we identify and arrest violent offenders and gang members, dismantle trafficking networks, and sever the supply chains arming cartels, prohibited persons, and terrorist organizations. We defend the rights of law-abiding citizens by safeguarding lawful commerce and upholding the Constitution of the United States. Learn more about what ATF is doing to reduce violent crime in your community by following us on X @ATFHQ, Instagram @ATFHQ, LinkedIn @ATF, and Facebook @HQATF, or on the web at www.atf.gov .