Gang activity is increasing in the United States. Traditional street gangs are becoming more violent; transnational gangs are growing and establishing new territories at an alarming rate. They are committing more crimes and instilling fear in the American public like never before. In addition, these gangs have become a threat to our national security interests as non-state and sub-state actors. Gangs engage in many and varied illegal activities to finance their organizations, including smuggling of drugs, people, and weapons across US borders. Terrorists could potentially use these gang networks for illegal immigration/smuggling services and as a means to smuggle weapons of mass destruction (WMD) into the United States. Although law enforcement efforts have increased over the last few years, there are still inadequate resources being devoted to the problem and a lack of understanding regarding how to deal with it. This is a growing and complex issue that requires a multinational and multipronged solution to minimize the threat to US national and regional security interests. Not only is this a major problem along US-Mexico border, it may also be a potential threat along the Canadian border. The United States must acknowledge the threat that these gangs present in bringing potential terrorists and WMD over our borders and into America. It is a growing concern and one that is unlikely to receive adequate attention and resources until it is too late. The military services are addressing this potential threat and engaging in regional security cooperation efforts with neighboring countries to help thwart this ever increasing risk to our society and security.
