CANU seizes cannabis-infused beverages at CJIA

The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), through the Guyana Early Warning System (EWS), has issued a national alert following the seizure of 222 cans of suspected THC-infused beverages at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport on Wednesday.
According to CANU, the beverages were discovered concealed inside storage tote bins among clothing, paper bags, and other miscellaneous items. Authorities believe the products are commercially manufactured cannabis-infused drinks originating from the United States.
CANU warned that the items are designed to resemble ordinary soft drinks, making them difficult to detect and particularly appealing to young people. The agency noted that the seizure highlights an emerging trafficking method involving low-odor, consumer-style cannabis products.
Despite the legality of such products in some jurisdictions, CANU emphasised that cannabis and cannabis-derived items, including THC-infused beverages, remain illegal in Guyana under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act. The importation, possession, or distribution of these substances may constitute a criminal offense.
The agency also raised public health concerns, warning that consumption of these beverages may result in impaired judgment, intoxication, anxiety, panic attacks, hallucinations, and an increased risk of overdose, particularly among first-time users.
CANU further cautioned that the packaging of the drinks closely resembles regular beverages, heightening the risk of accidental or intentional consumption by children and teenagers.
The agency is urging members of the public to avoid purchasing or consuming suspicious imported drinks or edible products, remain vigilant about unfamiliar canned beverages, monitor items accessible to minors, and report any suspicious products or information to CANU.
The seizure, CANU said, confirms that cannabis-infused consumables are being trafficked into Guyana through cargo systems, posing a growing threat to public health and safety.