CANU hosts advanced drone training for law enforcement, environmental agencies

The transformative potential of drone technology in modernising national security operations was the focus of Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, on Tuesday at the opening of a five-day drone training programme.
The initiative, which began on Monday, is being facilitated by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) at the Parc Rayne Events Centre, Houston and brings together 13 representatives from CANU, the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in a collaborative effort to enhance national security and operational efficiency.

Benn in his address emphasised the importance of leveraging advanced technology to modernise security responses.
“We must optimise the use of technology to ensure greater efficiency and safety in our responses,” he stated. He also underscored the value of continuous training and inter-agency collaboration in fully harnessing technological advancements.
“The development and application of these technologies are essential for ensuring peace, safety, and an enhanced quality of life for all citizens,” Benn added.
The training, led by Caliper Drone Services, provides participants with a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience. The programme covers critical areas such as drone rules and regulations; types and applications of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV); emergency response protocols; DJI GO app operations; basic takeoff, landing, and maneuvering techniques
Participants are also introduced to advanced drone features, including thermal imaging for nighttime operations, high-resolution cameras for vehicle tracking, and mapping and data collection software. These capabilities aim to enhance operations in areas such as prison security, environmental protection, and firefighting.
Director of CANU, James Singh, highlighted the broader strategic objectives of the programme. “This training is aligned with the Ministry’s strategy of fostering inter-agency collaboration, not only within Guyana but also with our counterparts in Suriname, French Guiana, Brazil, and beyond. It’s about creating a unified response to shared threats,” Singh explained.
He encouraged participants to apply their newly acquired skills in their daily operations. “We are the custodians of our territory, and this training represents a vital step in ensuring we can fulfill our responsibilities effectively,” Singh added.
Meanwhile, Technical Director of Caliper Drone Services, Julian Cadogan, elaborated on the comprehensive scope of the training. He noted that participants would gain expertise in managing emergencies, such as low battery or signal loss, ensuring they are equipped for safe and efficient operations across various sectors.