CANU drug seizures top $190M in Q1

Apr 16, 2026 News

…valued at $1.2B overseas

(Kaieteur News) – The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) recorded major operational gains in the first quarter of 2026, seizing a total of 371.24 kilogrammes of narcotics and disrupting trafficking networks across several regions.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs, CANU conducted 26 drug seizures, leading to 37 arrests, 30 charges and 18 court cases—figures that underscore an intelligence-led enforcement strategy, the agency said.

Cocaine accounted for the highest value among the drugs seized, with 113.01 kilogrammes recovered, reinforcing Guyana’s role as a key transit point for international trafficking. Cannabis, however, made up the largest volume, with significant seizures linked to local cultivation networks.

Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) emerged as the primary trafficking hotspot based on the quantity of narcotics seized, largely cannabis. This was followed by Regions Two and Four, pointing to established trafficking corridors and distribution hubs.

CANU operations also resulted in the seizure of four firearms and 166 rounds of ammunition, highlighting the link between drug trafficking and violent crime. The estimated street value of drugs seized locally exceeds $190 million, while international values surpass $1.2 billion, indicating that the bulk of profits is realised outside Guyana.

It was also stated that CANU strengthened its international cooperation and policy engagement, enhancing intelligence-sharing and strategic partnerships to support a more coordinated, evidence-based approach to drug control. Authorities said this reflects a shift toward proactive enforcement aimed at anticipating and responding to emerging threats.

Additionally, CANU bolstered its Early Warning System, issuing alerts on emerging threats such as MDMA (ecstasy) circulation and illegal THC vape products, particularly targeting youth.

Over 2,400 individuals were also reached through school and community outreach programmes, reinforcing prevention efforts alongside enforcement. The ministry noted that Guyana’s drug landscape remains complex, with cannabis dominating volume, cocaine driving value, and synthetic drugs emerging as a growing threat. It was further noted that CANU continues to prioritise intelligence-led operations, regional cooperation and prevention strategies to counter evolving trafficking networks.

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CANU, cocaine, drug seizures, drug trafficking, narcotics

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