CANU blazes over 3,000 lbs of marijuana; value pegged at $523M

The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) destroyed about 1,500 kilograms (or 3,307 pounds) of marijuana on Saturday at the old Ministry of Housing burnt-out site at Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

CANU Head James Singh told reporters at the scene that a majority of the narcotics were seized over the past year at various places including the airports, post offices and residences.

And altogether, the marijuana carries a street value of about US $2.5 million (or GY $523 million).

Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn reminded reporters that much of the narcotics were intended for export to other destinations. Despite the lucrative trade, he reminded that these drugs have “destructive” consequences.

Benn also highlighted that the local authorities have had greater successes at curtailing the trafficking of drugs. He attributed these successes to greater collaboration among the local security forces.

The CANU Head echoed similar sentiments, noting that 90 per cent of the body’s operations are done through multi-agency collaboration.