Caribbean Net News: US wants Guyana to show more results for millions received to fight narco-crime

GEORGETOWN, Guyana: Guyana stands to receive more aid from the United States government to help wage war against narco-criminals, but only if the CARICOM country shows improvement in tackling narco-crime.

US Ambassador to Guyana
Roland Bullen

Outgoing US Ambassador to Guyana Mr Roland Bullen made this disclosure on Tuesday at a private reception held to celebrate the 230th Independence Anniversary of the United States.

"There is plenty of room for improvement in fighting narco-crime in Guyana. We have dedicated many resources to this fight. For my government to invest more, it will need to see a greater return. Resources are success-driven and it is demoralizing to see drug shipments originating in Guyana, seized abroad, while narco-criminals roam freely here," Ambassador Bullen stated.

He noted that in the atmosphere of creeping lawlessness, Guyana has seen the brutal murders of many Guyanese, including Agriculture Minister Satyadeow Sawh, who was assassinated at his home in April of this year.

"These savage acts sicken me and the perpetrators of these heinous crimes must be brought to account, so that confidence in the rule of law can prevail," Ambassador Bullen noted.

In 2005, the US government's support to Guyana's counter-narcotics and law enforcement efforts reached US$1.3 million.

"Threats to Guyana's security and rule of law are also threats to US regional and international interest," the Ambassador noted.

Guyana has been labeled by the US as a major transshipment point for drugs destined for the US and Europe. Last Thursday the US managed to hold Shaheed 'Roger' Khan, who is believed to be the head of a major drug ring with connections to Colombia. He was indicted in the US for conspiring to import drugs into that country.

Khan was captured in Suriname, Guyana's eastern neighbour, where he had fled to escape local authorities who were seeking his arrest for questioning into the theft of 33 AK-47 assault rifles and other small arms from the army.

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