By Nakasia Logan
February 10, 2025
With synthetic drugs increasingly making their way into Guyana, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) is ramping up efforts to protect children and vulnerable communities through an awareness campaign in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
CANU Director James Singh revealed that while the agency has not yet seized synthetic drugs in schools, reports suggest their presence, prompting a proactive approach to prevent future cases.
“Rather than waiting until this is a problem, we believe in awareness,” Singh said, noting that CANU has issued a public bulletin warning students and parents about the dangers of these substances, which may be disguised as regular candy.
Singh also highlighted the growing influx of synthetic drugs into Guyana from Europe via transit routes.
Unlike traditional narcotics such as high-grade marijuana and cocaine, these substances are often found in social settings like nightclubs, where they are used to enhance energy and prolong wakefulness.
Beyond enforcement, CANU is prioritizing education and community engagement.
The agency is working with the Drug Information Network and local stakeholders to sensitize communities on drug-related risks.
Singh stated that CANU has submitted a school safety programme for review by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which aims to establish secure zones within and around schools.
“We want to focus on the youth, ensuring that those in vulnerable areas are informed about what to look out for and how to report suspicious activity,” Singh emphasized.
Through continuous collaboration with local and international partners, CANU remains committed to keeping synthetic drugs off Guyana’s streets and safeguarding the nation’s children.