The Ministry of Home Affairs on Thursday morning held another Annual Review and Projections Press Conference with a few of its agencies including the Immigration Support Services, Trafficking in Persons Unit, and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU).
Over eight (8) Million Dollars have been allocated for the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the Permanent Secretary Mr. Andre Ally stated that this budgetary allocation will further aid in CANU’s operation. This includes the purchasing of more vehicles, advanced equipment that will detect drugs at the various ports of entry, and the construction of CANU’s new headquarters.
Mr. James Singh, the Head of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) underscored several measures CANU has undertaken to lower the rates of drug-related crimes in the country. Singh claims that the initiatives taken by CANU to increase awareness are “proactive in nature.” He stated that CANU is working with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health on programmes to raise awareness.
Mr. James explained that this program is intended to make teachers aware of some of the drugs in circulation, how to recognize them, and potential signs of their use. He also emphasized the importance of community outreach programs, saying that people can be made aware of some of the negative social and health repercussions of drug use through the use of flyers and speaking engagements.
The Head of CANU further stated that the organization has used press releases and social media to inform the public about its activities. According to Singh, this is an attempt to “build public confidence” in the organization. When questioned about the level of public support, Singh said “we’re getting there”. He emphasized that the public provides the majority of the tips and cases that are reported. He added, “We don’t want people to feel afraid,” and that CANU is working to safeguard and ensure the safety of those who come forward.
As part of its efforts to reduce the pervasiveness of drug offenses in the country, CANU is “going to send its footprint across the country,” according to Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Robeson Benn.