Joint Services will continue to crack down on any attempts to engage in nefarious operations – Min Benn

Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn on Wednesday stated that the joint security forces remain vigilant and will continue to crack down on any attempts to engage in nefarious operations that threaten Guyana’s national security.
Benn made this comment during an inspection of a semi-submersible vessel which was seized back in April at Paiana Creek, Port Kaituma River, North West District (NWD). The vessel was transported to Ruimveldt Wharf on a tug and barge.
In a release issued by the Home Affairs Ministry, it stated, “This seizure represents a significant blow against illegal maritime activities in our territorial waters… “Our joint security forces remain vigilant and will continue to crack down on any attempts to engage in nefarious operations that threaten our national security”.
Inspecting the confiscated vessel were Minister Benn, Senior Superintendent Ewart Wray, Inspector Garfield Anthony, and Sergeant Mc Donald.

On April 20, 2024, the Guyana Police Force intercepted the vessel in Paiana Creek in Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD). The grey-coloured vessel was covered in troolie leaves and contained 15 sandbags along with about six cases of water. In addition, a makeshift camp was found nearby.
One week after the discovery, Benn reported that the vessel might have been linked to drug trafficking and possible transshipment. However, a source had explained that the vessel may not be categorised as a semi-submersible vessel, since, from all indications, it was propelled by outboard engines.
The source also stated that while sand and water were found in the vessel, there was no firm evidence that it had transporting drugs. “It may have transported drugs, but the boat is clean as a whistle, leaving no room for investigators to assume anything…,” the source has said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry also stated that a go-fast vessel was also seized by a joint police operation, resulting in the arrest of four persons, including one Colombian national. Investigations into both seizures are progressing.
The Home Affairs Ministry reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders and territorial integrity, employing robust measures to combat illicit activities that undermine the rule of law and public safety.
A few years ago, a self-propelled semi-submersible (SPSS) vessel was found in a secluded area in Region One.
The blue self-propelled semi-submersible was found by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) Special Forces, Coast Guard and Air Corps.
That was the first time an SPSS was found in Guyana, and that one had been built to trans-ship tonnes of narcotics/contraband smuggled into the country possibly for onward movement through the northwest coast onto the Trans-Atlantic route.
The craft had already been fitted with a diesel engine and steering wheel, navigation and other machinery to deem it serviceable.