The Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) is intensifying its efforts in combating the drug trade through enhanced interagency collaboration on local, regional, and international fronts.
In an exclusive interview with Nakasia Logan, Head of CANU, James Singh, highlights the agency’s commitment to a multiagency approach, resulting in successful operations and convictions.
Singh emphasizes that CANU works closely with various law enforcement bodies, including the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, GRA, and others.
The success, he notes, is attributed to robust interagency cooperation, stronger than ever before.
Additionally, CANU has expanded its collaboration with European counterparts, such as the French, the United Kingdom, Germany, and other European Union countries, as well as partners in Africa.
This collaboration aims to adapt to evolving drug trafficking routes, with increased sharing of information.
In reviewing CANU’s accomplishments in 2023, Singh mentions significant triumphs, including operations against individuals with extensive histories in drug trafficking, such as Andrew Morgan and Royston Peniston (known as Fat Joe).
Despite the lengthy legal process, CANU successfully secured convictions, boosting morale and demonstrating the agency’s commitment to pursuing persons of interest.
As CANU continues its pursuit of a drug-free Guyana with government support, Singh underscores the agency’s dedication to staying ahead of emerging challenges.
This commitment involves international collaboration, ongoing training, technological innovation, and a community-oriented approach.
In 2023 alone, CANU seized over 1300 kilograms (nearly 3000 pounds) of narcotics, including cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, and hashish.
Already in the current year, CANU has seized more than 161 kilograms of cannabis.