The United States has announced more than US$8 million in funding to strengthen forensic capabilities across the Caribbean and help regional authorities combat synthetic drugs such as fentanyl.

The funding, administered through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, was announced during the second Caribbean Regional Forensic Leadership Summit held in Saint Lucia from May 20 to 22.

According to the announcement, the support package includes US$5 million for advanced narcotics detection and forensic equipment, as well as US$3 million for specialised forensic training.

Officials also announced the establishment of a new Caribbean Forensic Scientific Working Group and expanded regional information-sharing with the Drug Enforcement Administration.

US Chargé d’Affaires Sarah Nelson said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to disrupting criminal networks and addressing evolving drug threats across the region.

The initiative forms part of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, which supports cooperation between the United States and Caribbean countries on security and crime prevention efforts.