HGP Nightly News – The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit says it recorded significant results in the first quarter of 2026, seizing more than 371 kilogrammes of narcotics and disrupting suspected trafficking networks across several regions. The agency said the operations reflect a stronger intelligence-led approach to drug enforcement, as Guyana continues to face a complex narcotics landscape involving cannabis, cocaine and emerging synthetic drugs.
According to CANU’s Q1 report, 26 drug seizures were carried out between January and March, resulting in 37 arrests, 30 charges and 18 court cases. The Unit said cocaine remained the primary high-value drug seized, with 113.01 kilogrammes recovered, reinforcing concerns about Guyana’s continued use as a transit point for international trafficking. Cannabis accounted for the largest volume of narcotics seized, with several major seizures linked to local cultivation networks.
Region Six, East Berbice-Corentyne, emerged as the main trafficking hotspot based on the quantity of narcotics seized, most of which was cannabis. It was followed by Regions Two and Four, pointing to what CANU described as established corridors and distribution hubs. The Unit said these patterns show that trafficking remains active across both rural and more populated areas, requiring continued monitoring and coordinated enforcement.
The operations also led to the seizure of four firearms and 166 rounds of ammunition, underscoring the connection between narcotics trafficking and violent crime. CANU said the estimated local street value of the drugs seized exceeds $190 million, while the international value is estimated at more than $1.2 billion, suggesting that the largest profits are generated beyond Guyana’s borders.
Beyond enforcement, CANU said it strengthened international cooperation and policy engagement during the period, integrating Guyana more closely into global drug control efforts. The Unit pointed to enhanced intelligence-sharing, strategic partnerships and participation in regional and international initiatives as part of a more coordinated approach to identifying and responding to emerging threats.
CANU also reported improvements to its Early Warning System, issuing alerts on threats such as MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, and illegal THC vape products, which it said are of particular concern because of their appeal to youth markets. At the same time, more than 2,400 persons were reached through school and community outreach programmes, as the Unit continues to combine enforcement with prevention.
The agency said Guyana’s drug environment remains challenging, with cannabis dominating seizure volumes, cocaine driving value, and synthetic drugs emerging as a growing concern. CANU said it will continue to focus on intelligence-led operations, regional cooperation and public education as it works to counter evolving trafficking networks.
