GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – Members of Guyana’s Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Saturday destroyed illicit drugs valued US$2.5 million most of which were seized during the first half of this year.

The destruction exercise that was conducted at the former Ministry of Housing tarmac here, saw 1009 kilograms of marijuana being destroyed by fire.

According to a CANU press statement, the narcotics were used as evidence for cases which have since concluded in the Magistrates’ court.

The statement noted from January to June, 2023, CANU seized approximately 677 kilograms of narcotics, consisting of 662 kilograms of cannabis, 14 kilograms of cocaine, 10 grams of hashish and 90 grams of ecstasy.

According to CANU, it dealt with a total of 30 cases, 27 of which resulted in convictions.

The unit has placed great emphasis on the areas of demand reduction and Institutional Strengthening collaborating with various agencies in this sector, conducting School Drug Prevention sensitizations throughout the country as well as working on other projects that will facilitate the development of treatment and reintegration of recovering Substance Users.

In order to combat the issue of drug trafficking, CANU said emphasis is also being placed on International cooperation through collaboration with international and regional organisations.

“The unit remains committed to ensuring a safer country under the One Guyana Initiative,” the statement noted.