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BOOKLET SERIES: THE TRUTH ABOUT DRUGS
ALERTS: GUYANA EARLY WARNING SYSTEM
GENERAL DRUG INFORMATION

RECENT PRESS RELEASES

EWS ALERTS

TIP OF THE MONTH

The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) is encouraging members of the public to play an active role in the fight against drug trafficking and related criminal activities by reporting suspicious activities through its anonymous tip platform. The initiative allows citizens to safely share information without fear of exposure or retaliation, reinforcing CANU’s commitment to confidentiality, public safety, and community partnership. CANU reminds the public: “See Something. Say Something. Together, we can stop drug trafficking.”

OBSERVANCES IN THE MONTH OF MAY

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Throughout the month of May, the Unit proudly joined the nation in observing and celebrating several significant occasions that reflect Guyana’s heritage, resilience, and appreciation for service and family. These observances reflect CANU’s continued commitment not only to national security but also to community, unity, and the values that strengthen Guyanese society.

WANTED INDIVIDUALS

NAME: Mervyn Tayyib John

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: Lot 4, Public Road, Golden Grove, East Bank, Demerara.

WANTED: In relation to a matter regarding the Possession of Narcotics for the Purpose of Trafficking

NAME: Rolston Bacchus

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS: Haslington, North East Coast, Demerara

WANTED: concerning a matter relating to the trafficking of narcotics

Anyone with information regarding their whereabouts is urged to contact the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) immediately via: 📞 Telephone: +592 226 0431 📧 Email: info@canu.gov.gy

LOCAL DRUG RELATED NEWS

May, 2026

Guyana Prison Service - GPS
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www.facebook.com
GRA cracks down on illegal cigarettes; smokers, shops warned about unstamped brands
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newsroom.gy
Teen arrested after cocaine found during Essequibo Coast operation
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newsroom.gy
GDF rank convicted in 154lb ganja trafficking case - INews Guyana
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inewsguyana.com
News Room
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www.facebook.com
Bartica welder in custody after tossing ganja into river, over 360 grams recovered
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newsroom.gy
Smuggling of Narcotic Drugs and Illicit Items in Personal Effects Consignments – Guyana Revenue Authority
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www.gra.gov.gy
Motorcyclist escapes police after dropping unlicensed firearm
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newsroom.gy
BIG SMITH News WATCH
Reports indicate that the police officer reportedly handed over one hundred rounds of 9MM ammunition to a civilian member of the public in the vicinity of the Linden Bus Park.
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www.facebook.com

INTERNATIONAL DRUG-RELATED NEWS

May, 2026

What Spain’s Record Cocaine Bust Says About the Drug Trade
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insightcrime.org
Laois/Offaly Garda operation leads to major drug seizure and arrest - News - Laois Nationalist
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www.laois-nationalist.ie
Alleged fentanyl trafficker arrested in Arcadia, nearly 40 pounds worth $1.3 million seized
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abc7.com
Cocaine hidden inside flatbread that arrived in Canada by ship from Caribbean: RCMP | INsauga
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www.insauga.com
Spain seizes record cocaine haul in Atlantic, Civil Guard union says
Spain's close ties with Latin America and proximity to Morocco, a top cannabis producer, make it a key entry point for drugs into Europe. #EuropeNews
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www.euronews.com
Spain seizes 30 tons of cocaine in record European haul, detains 23 crew
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www.reuters.com
Inside Europe's Largest Cocaine Bust & the Ship Still at Sea
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windward.ai
Coast Guard offloads over $53M in illicit drugs from the Eastern Pacific & Caribbean Sea
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www.news.uscg.mil
Curaçao Chronicle | Dutch navy intercepts second drug shipment in one week in Caribbean Sea
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www.curacaochronicle.com

NOTIFICATIONS

The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) recently conducted a narcotics destruction exercise as part of its ongoing commitment to reducing the circulation of illegal drugs and strengthening national security. During the exercise, CANU Director James Singh reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to intelligence-led enforcement, transparency, and continued efforts to combat drug trafficking and organized criminal activity across Guyana.

The Guyana Police Force has restructured its training and recruitment systems to meet modern policing standards, while providing continuous professional development for officers throughout their careers. The Force also maintains a zero-tolerance stance on corruption, with active investigations and strict accountability measures in place. Additionally, efforts are being strengthened to rebuild trust with hinterland and indigenous communities through outreach and community engagement initiatives.

The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) continues to advance its mission of protecting Guyana through intelligence-led operations, public awareness, and strengthened inter-agency cooperation aimed at combating drug trafficking and organized crime. The Unit remains committed to safeguarding communities, reducing the impact of illicit drugs, and promoting national security through proactive enforcement and prevention initiatives.

The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) continues to promote public awareness and community engagement as part of its ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and reduce the harmful impact of illicit drugs in Guyana. Through proactive outreach, education, and enforcement initiatives, the Unit remains committed to safeguarding communities, supporting national security, and encouraging citizens to play an active role in building a safer and drug-free society.

Guyana’s prison system is transforming lives. Real reform is underway, with fewer repeat offenders and more prisoners gaining the skills to contribute to their communities after release. Watch the new episode of Safeguarding Our Nation this Tuesday, Aug 5 at 10 am #SafeguardingOurNation #Guyana #PrisonReform #NationalSecurity #SecondChances #CARICOM

Go behind the scenes at Lusignan Prison 🎥 See how Safeguarding Our Nation was filmed with Marcia Hope. Guyana Prison Service - GPS and why Guyana’s prison reform is setting a regional example. #SafeguardingOurNation #Guyana #PrisonReform #NationalSecurity #SecondChances #CARICOM

RECENT EVENTS

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The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), through the Guyana Drug Information Network (GUYDIN), continues to support coordinated national responses for individuals affected by substance use disorders, particularly vulnerable persons facing homelessness, stigma, and barriers to reintegration. Through the FOCTALI Project, the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD/OAS), with support from the Government of Italy, conducted a technical assistance visit to Guyana to support the development of the “Second Chances” programme in Georgetown. The engagement focused on incorporating best practices identified during the recent Italy study visit and strengthening collaboration among key national stakeholders, including the Ministries of Home Affairs, Human Services and Social Security, Health, the Judiciary, and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). CANU acknowledges the continued support of CICAD/OAS and international partners in advancing evidence-based rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives in Guyana.

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Guyana has secured a 3rd-place ranking in the latest assessments under the SEACOP Joint Maritime Control Unit (JMCU) Caribbean Competition, achieving a score of 72 out of 80 (90%). This performance places Guyana among the top-performing maritime law enforcement units in the Caribbean, tied with Saint Kitts and Nevis, and just behind Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, which led the rankings with 75 out of 80 (94%). Guyana was represented by officers of the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Guyana Defence Force (GDF) coast guard, whose performance demonstrated a high level of operational capability, discipline, and consistency in maritime interdiction practices. The results reflect a strong national capacity to conduct structured vessel searches and to maintain compliance with international enforcement standards. #SafeguardingOurNation #Guyana #PrisonReform #NationalSecurity #SecondChances #CARICOM

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CANU Participates in the 2026 Annual Senior Correctional Officers’ Conference Today, the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) proudly participated in the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) 2026 Annual Senior Correctional Officers’ Conference, held under the theme “Fostering Growth, Driving Synergy, and Securing the Future of Corrections". During the conference, CANU officers engaged with senior correctional leaders and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration across the justice and security sectors. The Unit also highlighted its nationwide drug awareness and prevention initiatives, aimed at educating communities and deterring first-time drug use across Guyana. Through outreach programmes, educational materials, and strategic partnerships with schools, communities, and institutions, CANU continues to promote informed decision-making and empower citizens, especially young people, to stay drug-free.

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The Director of the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), Mr. James Singh, recently met with the Honourable Minister of Education and the Honourable Minister of Home Affairs to strengthen inter-ministerial collaboration aimed at advancing national drug prevention and awareness initiatives across Guyana. Discussions focused on expanding coordinated school-based and community outreach programmes, with particular emphasis placed on the integration and use of CANU’s “Truth About Drugs” booklet series as part of ongoing prevention and public education efforts. The series addresses the dangers and consequences associated with drug use, trafficking, synthetic drugs, vaping, alcohol, and other harmful substances through youth-friendly and evidence-based messaging. The engagement highlighted the importance of a whole-of-government approach in addressing drug-related challenges, promoting early prevention, strengthening youth resilience, and supporting safer school and community environments. The Ministries reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation with CANU and the Guyana Drug Information Network (GUYDIN) in advancing national awareness, prevention, and demand-reduction strategies throughout Guyana.

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Guyana Participates in FOCTALI High-Level Meeting in Italy Guyana participated in the FOCTALI High-Level Meeting on Public-Private Partnerships, held in Italy from February 10–12, 2026, aimed at advancing rehabilitation, social and labour integration, and alternatives to incarceration for individuals with substance use disorders in the criminal justice system. Guyana was represented by Mr. James Singh, Director of the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), and Mrs. Kathy Smith of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). Their participation highlighted Guyana’s commitment to integrated drug policies that combine enforcement, rehabilitation, and private-sector engagement to reduce recidivism and support sustainable reintegration. The meeting was organised under the FOCTALI project, led by the Executive Secretariat of the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (ES-CICAD) of the Organization of American States (OAS), with support from the Government of Italy. Representatives from eight OAS member states participated, including national drug authorities, public institutions, and private-sector stakeholders. Now in its fourth phase (2024–2026), FOCTALI promotes public-private cooperation as a key pillar of inclusive and sustainable drug policies. The program included working sessions in Rome and a study visit to the San Patrignano Therapeutic Community in Rimini, internationally recognised for its rehabilitation and social integration model.