Guyana – Concerned with Increased Drug Smuggling

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) says it continues to observe “alarming cases of increased efforts” to smuggle refined narcotic drugs and other illicit items through personal consignments, such as barrels, boxes, packages, suitcases, and containers at ports of entry into the country.

In a statement, the GRA said that on March 3, the Authority’s Law Enforcement and Investigation Division conducted an operation at the Cheddie Jagan International Airport, and seized quantities of suspected cannabis and refined marijuana found in a passenger’s luggage on an incoming Caribbean flight.

“The passenger was arrested and has been handed over to the Customs and Narcotic Unit (CANU) for further investigations and possible prosecution,” the statement said.

The GRA said it is “once again” advising all “persons dealing in or contemplating engaging in such illegal activities to cease and desist therefrom.”

“The Revenue Authority continues its plea to the general public to report any illicit, unlawful or smuggling activities,” it said, adding “all information provided will be dealt with strict confidentiality and such persons may be rewarded in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Act”. (CMC)