US Increases Funding to Enhance Guyana Efforts in Combating Transnational Crimes

US Increases Funding to Enhance Guyana Efforts in Combating Transnational Crimes

US Increases Funding to Enhance Guyana Efforts in Combating Transnational Crimes

US Increases Funding to Enhance Guyana’s Efforts in Combating Transnational Crimes

In a bid to bolster Guyana’s capacity in combating drug trafficking and transnational crimes, additional funds have been allocated to the country through the US Government’s International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement Fund. The agreement for this increased funding was signed by US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, and Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in Georgetown.

The financing, aimed at deepening the partnership between the US and Guyana under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI), seeks to address shared security challenges and support Guyana’s efforts to develop an inclusive, transparent, and more efficient criminal justice system. Ambassador Theriot highlighted the collaborative initiatives under CBSI, focusing on disrupting organized crime, promoting citizen security, and facilitating criminal justice and institutional reforms.

To combat crime effectively and enhance the rule of law, a US$300,000 fund has been allocated to integrate Guyana into the Regional Security System. Additionally, Ambassador Theriot announced several new partnerships for increased assistance to Guyana:

A capacity-building training program with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to strengthen Guyana’s counter-narcotics capabilities and provide critical casualty and trauma care training for law enforcement officers and community members.

Deployment of a technical FBI team to assist in upgrading Guyana’s integrated, automated fingerprint identification system at major ports to ensure interoperability with US law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of port security in combating transnational organized crime.

Investment of US$350,000 under the Better Police Readiness Program to support the implementation of the Guyana Police Force’s strategic management plan, focusing on improving training curriculum, enhancing strategic planning and management, bolstering forensic and crime scene investigation capabilities, and providing crisis communication and hostage negotiation training.

Minister Robeson Benn underscored the significance of enhancing narcotics interdiction and preventing drug use in Guyana, acknowledging the regional and global nature of the fight against narcotics trafficking. He emphasized the need for continued international assistance in combating this issue, recognizing the negative effects of narcotics trafficking on neighboring countries in the Caribbean region and South America, including the proliferation of firearms and associated crime and violence.

The partnership between the US and Guyana aims to support a more inclusive criminal justice system and attract international investment as Guyana undergoes rapid growth, transformation, and economic diversification.

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