The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) has reported significant operational successes in the first quarter of 2026, seizing 371.24 kilogrammes of narcotics and disrupting trafficking networks across multiple regions.
CANU recorded 26 drug seizures during the period, leading to 37 arrests, 30 charges, and 18 court cases, reflecting what it described as an intelligence-led enforcement approach.
Cocaine accounted for 113.01 kilogrammes of the total seizures, while cannabis represented the largest overall volume, largely linked to local cultivation networks, the agency noted.
The unit stated that Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) emerged as the main trafficking hotspot based on seizure volumes, followed by Regions Two and Four, indicating established distribution corridors.
CANU also reported the seizure of four firearms and 166 rounds of ammunition, highlighting links between drug trafficking and violent crime.
The estimated street value of the drugs seized locally exceeded GY$190 million, while international valuations surpassed GY$1.2 billion, the agency added, noting that most profits are generated outside Guyana.
The agency indicated it strengthened international cooperation during the period, expanding intelligence-sharing and participation in regional and global drug control initiatives as part of a more coordinated enforcement strategy.
CANU further noted enhancements to its Early Warning System, issuing alerts on emerging threats including MDMA (ecstasy) and illegal THC vape products, particularly targeting youth markets.
More than 2,400 individuals were reached through school and community outreach programmes during the quarter, as part of prevention efforts, it added.
CANU stated that Guyana’s drug landscape remains mixed, with cannabis dominating in volume, cocaine driving value, and synthetic drugs emerging as new threats, as it continues to prioritise intelligence-led operations and regional cooperation.
