Cocaine valued at US$200 million found buried close to airstrip in Guyana

An investigation has been launched following the discovery of cocaine valued at US$200 million that was buried close to a clandestine airstrip . 

The discovery was made with the help of the United States.

According to the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) the US intelligence assisted in locating and hauling out of 4.4 tons of cocaine worth almost US$200 million, which was destined for Europe, from a number of pits near an illegal airstrip in the Matthews Ridge area.

“The operation was driven by intelligence regarding illegal flights into Guyana and was supported by information shared with the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and other international partners,” CANU said in a statement on Sunday,

CANU’s Head James Singh told Demerara Wave Online News that the cocaine, that was found on Saturday,  was destined to Europe by marine craft.

CANU said the operation was assisted by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Special Forces Unit and this  led to the discovery of the illegal airstrip. 

“A subsequent of the surrounding area resulted in the unearthing of 4.4 tons of suspected cocaine,” the unit said.

The cocaine was destroyed at the location after samples were taken.

“This seizure highlights the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) and the Government’s unwavering commitment to combating the narcotics trade in Guyana and collaborating with international partners. The Government of Guyana is making significant strides to equip the Joint Services with the necessary tools to combat drug trafficking and other illicit activities within the country. Recent investments in the GDF Coast Guard, Air Corps, and the Guyana Police to enhance monitoring of border regions underscore this dedication.”

So far, no arrests have been made .

CANU added that the seizure also demonstrates the confidence that the Guyanese Government, international agencies, and Joint Services have in CANU’s ability to fulfill its mandate. 

CANU has also been leading Guyana’s anti-narcotics efforts, resulting in previous seizures of aircraft, and semi-submersibles, and the arrests of high-profile drug traffickers.

In March, the authorities in Guyana seized half a ton of cocaine and arrested two Venezuelans who were transporting it in a speedboat along a river.

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