In a major anti-narcotics operation at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), two men were taken into custody after authorities discovered a significant quantity of cannabis concealed in a barrel shipped from the United States.

Acting on intelligence, officers from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) conducted targeted searches at the Laparkan Cargo Shed on Wednesday. Their efforts led to the inspection of three barrels, one of which yielded 1.5 kilograms of cannabis packed in transparent parcels. The two suspects, identified as Machaia Andrews of Non Pariel and Lemme Campbell of Enterprise, were immediately arrested and transported to CANU Headquarters along with the seized narcotics.

Further investigations prompted CANU officers to search a residence in North East La Penitence, Georgetown, where they uncovered a black garbage bag containing numerous packets of foreign zip-lock bags, small plastic containers typically used for packaging cannabis, and rolling papers.

In total, authorities seized approximately 17.9 kilograms of foreign cannabis in this operation. The bust underscores ongoing efforts by Guyanese law enforcement to combat the importation and distribution of illicit drugs through cargo shipments. The investigation remains active as authorities work to dismantle the networks involved in the transnational drug trade.