Rising Drug Trafficking Through Guyana

Guyana is increasingly being used as a transit point for illicit drugs, primarily originating from Venezuela, according to James Singh, Chief of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU). Singh stated on Tuesday that the country’s strategic location and increased patrols in the Caribbean have made it an attractive alternative route for drug trafficking organizations.

Previously, cocaine shipments transiting Guyana were largely destined for North America. However,authorities have observed a shift,with increasing amounts of drugs now being routed to Western Africa and Europe. This change is attributed to heightened security measures making the traditional North American route more perilous for traffickers.

CANU has intercepted smuggling attempts utilizing various methods, including low-altitude flights, maritime containers, and even semi-submersible vessels designed to evade radar detection. The source of the drugs is overwhelmingly traced back to Venezuela.

Venezuela and the Essequibo Dispute

Singh pointedly noted the connection between Venezuela’s status as a “narco-state” and its ongoing territorial dispute with Guyana over the Essequibo region. “It does not help (Venezuela) be a narco-speaking and claim two thirds of our territory,” he stated.The Essequibo,comprising approximately 160,000 square kilometers – nearly two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass – has been a source of tension between the two countries for over a century. Recent statements from Venezuelan officials indicate that negotiations are seen as the only path forward in resolving the dispute.

International Collaboration is Key

Guyana is actively collaborating with international partners to combat drug trafficking. These partnerships include the United states Drug Enforcement Management (DEA), as well as security agencies from the United Kingdom, Canada, Brazil, Colombia, France, and Suriname. Singh emphasized the necessity of these alliances, stating, “We cannot fight alone. We fight an enemy on different fronts.it is indeed a network, so alliances are key.”

President Irfaan ali formally requested additional international support and “resources” in 2023 to address the influx of drugs entering the country. This request followed the seizure of 4.5 tons of cocaine – the largest in Guyanese history, valued at $200 million – discovered buried on an illegal airstrip in Region One.