Georgetown, Guyana (AP) — Guyana is asking the US government for help in cracking down on drug smuggling at the South American country’s main airport.
US Ambassador Perry Holloway says talks are ongoing with Guyana officials to loan special drug-detecting equipment.
The cooperation comes as administrators at Cheddi Jagan International Airport crack down on bag handlers and check-in clerks accused of helping drug smugglers. Many have been fired.
Guyana’s anti-narcotics director, James Singh, said Monday that he will also discuss with Holloway ways to improve his unit’s intelligence capabilities.
US officials have often said Guyana is a transhipment point for drugs heading to North America, and frequently demand that local officials do more to combat the trade. The country borders Venezuela, Suriname and Brazil.