Guyana Early Warning System - EWS - Rapid Alerts

GUYANA EARLY WARNING SYSTEM ISSUES ALERT ON SYNTHETIC DRUG THREAT NOTICE – M**A & CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE
DATE: 13TH MAY 2026

The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), through the Guyana Drug Information Network (GUYDIN) and the Early Warning System (EWS), is alerting the public to the emerging threat posed by the suspected circulation of synthetic stimulant drugs, including M**A (Ecstasy) and Crystal Methamphetamine (“Crystal Meth” / “Ice”), within Guyana.

Recent intelligence-led operations resulted in the seizure of suspected M**A and crystalline substances consistent with methamphetamine hydrochloride. Preliminary field testing indicated the presence of amphetamine-type stimulants, while forensic confirmation remains ongoing.

Authorities are particularly concerned about:

• Possible distribution within nightlife and youth environments
• Synthetic drugs being disguised or mixed with other substances
• Increased risks of overdose, psychosis, seizures, violent behaviour, and severe addiction
• Organised criminal trafficking networks exploiting entertainment and transport channels

CANU strongly advises the public not to consume, handle, transport, or purchase unknown pills, crystals, powders, or “party drugs.” These substances may contain dangerous adulterants and unpredictable chemical compositions capable of causing serious injury or death.

Parents, schools, healthcare providers, transport operators, nightlife establishments, and community leaders are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious drug-related activity to law enforcement authorities immediately.

GUYANA EARLY WARNING SYSTEM ISSUES ALERT ON EMERGING PSYCHOACTIVE GUMMIES
DATE: 13TH MAY, 2026

The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), through the Guyana Drug Information Network (GUYDIN) and the national Early Warning System (EWS), has issued a Level 2 – Emerging Circulation Confirmed Alert following the seizure of suspected psychoactive gummy products at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

The products, marketed as “Mushroom Gummies” and “Entheogenic Nootropic Blend Gummies,” were intercepted during passenger screening operations. Preliminary assessments indicate the products may contain THCP and other emerging psychoactive compounds.

Authorities are warning the public that these brightly packaged edible products may pose serious health risks, including hallucinations, severe intoxication, panic reactions, psychosis, and impaired judgment. Internationally, THCP-related products have been associated with unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects.

CANU further reminds the public that products labelled as “hemp-derived,” “natural,” or “wellness” supplements are not exempt from enforcement scrutiny under the laws of Guyana.

The seizure highlights the growing regional and international trend involving novel psychoactive substances (NPS) disguised as edible or wellness products and marketed online, particularly to youths and young adults.

Investigations remain ongoing, and the products have been secured for forensic analysis. CANU urges parents, schools, retailers, and the wider public to remain vigilant and report suspicious psychoactive products to the relevant authorities.

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EARLY WARNING ALERT
A dangerous drug product identified in Guyana contained Delta-9-THC, Delta-8-THC, suspected synthetic cannabinoids, and herbal carrier material, which was discovered by Officers of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit during an operation. This is a major warning sign of chemically altered products being disguised as natural substances. Not all w**d is actually w**d anymore. Stay alert and protect your community.

GUYANA EARLY WARNING SYSTEM ALERT
A dangerous product was identified containing:
• Delta-9-THC
• Delta-8-THC
• Suspected synthetic cannabinoids
Mixed into herbal material.

WHAT WAS FOUND?
A seized product in Guyana showed:
• THC
• Delta-8-THC
• Suspected synthetic cannabinoids
• Herbal carrier material (Marshmallow Leaf)
This means the substance may look harmless, but it is not.

WHY THIS IS SERIOUS
Synthetic cannabinoids can be far more dangerous than natural cannabis.
Risks may include:
• Severe anxiety or panic
• Psychosis
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Cardiac stress
• Loss of consciousness
• Death in extreme cases

THE DECEPTION
This product may be disguised as a natural herbal product or tea.
That makes it easier to:
• Hide
• Sell
• Mislead users
• Avoid suspicion

KEY WARNING SIGNS
Authorities are seeing:
• Synthetic cannabinoids mixed with herbal material
• Delta-8, Delta-9, and synthetics together
• A shift from traditional cannabis to engineered products
• Higher risk of mass intoxication incidents

PUBLIC HEALTH RISK
These products are unpredictable.
Potency may vary across the same batch.
One portion may seem weak. Another may be dangerously concentrated.

STAY ALERT. STAY SAFE.
Unknown herbal products can carry serious risks.
Report suspicious products or unusual reactions through the proper channels.
Customs Anti Narcotic Unit – Guyana Early Warning System

Hashtags:

🚨 PUBLIC ALERT: THC-INFUSED DRINKS SEIZED AT CJIA 🚨

CANU is warning the public following the seizure of 222 THC-infused beverages at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

These products were hidden inside cargo shipments and are designed to look like regular soft drinks, making them especially dangerous, particularly for young people.

⚠️ IMPORTANT:
Cannabis and all cannabis-derived products, including THC drinks, are ILLEGAL in Guyana. Possession, importation, or distribution can lead to serious criminal charges.

🧠 Health Risks Include:

Impaired judgment

Panic attacks & hallucinations

Accidental overdose

Increased risk for youth exposure

🚫 DO NOT BUY OR CONSUME UNKNOWN DRINKS
👀 Be alert to suspicious imported beverages
📢 Report any information to CANU immediately

Reports can be made confidentially via
Tel: 592-227-3503 / 592-226-0431
Email: [email protected]

This is a new and emerging drug trend, and we are taking strong action to protect the public.

Early warning system drug alert:
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (M**A)

INCIDENT SUMMARY
On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at approximately 10:46 hrs, The Guyana Police, Regional Division #2 responded to a report from a secondary school on the Essequibo Coast where several small transparent zip-lock bags containing a substance suspected to be Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (M**A), commonly known as “Molly,” were discovered in the possession of two students and inside a classroom. The suspected narcotics were seized and weighed, amounting to 5.82 grams, and subsequently lodged as evidence. Two juveniles, aged 14 and 15, were taken to the police station in the presence of school officials, their parents, and a welfare officer, while a 20-year-old male was later arrested and remains in custody as investigations continue.

PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Preliminary Test conducted by Officers confirmed the presence of:
3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (M**A), A Schedule I controlled substance under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Cap. 10:10.

THREAT INDICATORS & EARLY WARNING SIGNALS
• Confirmed circulation of M**A tablets within commercial entertainment zones
• Distribution pattern consistent with nightlife and youth-targeted micro-trafficking
• Amphetamine-type stimulants remain rare in Guyana, making this detection significant
• Potential for increased demand due to nightlife, parties, or imported supply streams
• High-risk profile due to dosing variability and unknown adulterants

WHAT IS METHYLENEDIOXYMETHAMPHETAMINE (M**A)
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (M**A) is a stimulant and hallucinogen, eliciting an invigorating impact, alterations in temporal and perceptual experiences, and heightened pleasure in tactile sensations.

PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY RISKS
• Pills may contain varying concentrations, increasing overdose risk
• Possible adulteration with caffeine, methamphetamine, synthetic cathinones, or other stimulants
Users may experience:
• Rapid heart rate
• Hyperthermia (dangerous overheating)
• Confusion, agitation
• Risk of collapse, seizures, or severe dehydration
• A greater danger when combined with alcohol or other drugs

PSYCHOLOGICAL SIDE EFFECTS AND RISKS OF M**A
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Confusion
• Depression
• Drug cravings
• Loss of appetite
• Memory and attention difficulties
• Paranoia
• Sleep difficulties

PHYSICAL SIDE EFFECTS OF M**A:
• Blurred vision
• Chills
• Dangerous increase in body temperature (hyperpyrexia)
• Dehydration, which can be severe
• Feeling faint
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Muscle tension and cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Restless legs
• Sweating
• Tremors

WITHDRAWAL
The effects of ecstasy often persist for 3-6 hours; however, individuals may administer a further dose when the effects of the previous dose diminish or engage in a binge pattern, consuming multiple doses consecutively. Following around one week of such usage, individuals may have difficulties like irritability, impulsivity, sleep disruptions, anxiety, memory and attention deficits, and diminished motivation in sexual activity.
Upon cessation of ecstasy usage, certain individuals with a history of recurrent use report experiencing withdrawal symptoms, which may encompass:

● Fatigue.
● Depression.
● Difficulty concentrating.
● Loss of appetite.
● Sleep issues.
● Anxiety.
● Irritability.

RECOVERY
Although the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved any drugs for the treatment of ecstasy addiction, medical detox can create a stable, safe environment in which any remaining acute intoxication and ecstasy withdrawal can be managed more effectively.18 Detox is typically the first step towards recovery and is insufficient on its own to support long-term rehabilitation. As a result, treatment continues after detox and can take place in a variety of settings.
Inpatient rehab centres offer high-quality care and may be effective if you have a history of polysubstance abuse or co-occurring mental health disorders. You will reside on-site and receive several therapies, along with round-the-clock support and monitoring.
Outpatient rehabilitation allows you to live at home or in a sober-living facility while receiving treatment one to several times each week. It may be an appropriate alternative if you have a supportive home environment or require less intensive treatment.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy is the primary treatment for ecstasy addiction. These approaches help people change beliefs and behaviours that contribute to substance abuse and teach healthy coping strategies for stress and other life challenges. Cognitive-behavioural therapies can be delivered in individual counselling sessions or in group therapy. Mutual-help groups can be an effective complement to cognitive-behavioural therapy, as they provide support from people who are also in recovery.
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS (AGENCIES & STAKEHOLDERS)
LAW ENFORCEMENT
• Increase patrols and surveillance in entertainment hubs

• Monitor micro-distribution networks and vehicle-based supply points

• Strengthen intelligence-sharing with venue security teams

HEALTH SECTOR
• Alert emergency departments to potential M**A-related presentations

• Monitor for clusters of acute intoxication

• Ensure rapid reporting to GUYDIN/EWS

EDUCATION & PREVENTION AGENCIES
• Issue youth-friendly advisories

• Integrate stimulant-risk messaging into school and tertiary outreach

• Engage nightlife operators for awareness support

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING SEIZED PRODUCTS
See the picture below.
In accordance with Schedule I of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Cap. 10:10, ecstasy (M**A) is classified as a prohibited substance under the laws of Guyana. Any criminal offence involving the possession, trafficking, or distribution of ecstasy is illegal.

EWS NOTICE LEVEL
⚠️ Level 3 - Emerging Circulation Confirmed
M**A has been forensically validated and detected in a context suggesting active distribution. Continued monitoring is required.

REFERENCES
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/ecstasy-abuse/withdrawal-symptoms
https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2025-01/Ecstasy-M**A-2024-Drug-Fact-Sheet.pdf
https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/what-is-ecstasy

PUBLIC DRUG ALERT
Guyana National Early Warning System (EWS)
Issued: 27 January 2026

The Guyana National Early Warning System (EWS), coordinated through the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), wishes to inform the general public of the detection of pills suspected to be M**A (commonly known as “ecstasy”) within Guyana.

During a law-enforcement operation conducted at Tabatinga, Lethem, officers discovered tablets which, upon preliminary field testing, showed a positive indication for amphetamine-type stimulants, consistent with M**A. Further analysis is ongoing.

Public Health and Safety Advisory

M**A is a controlled substance under the Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Chapter 10:10, and its possession, use, distribution, or trafficking is illegal in Guyana.

The use of M**A poses serious health risks, particularly because:

The strength and composition of tablets are unpredictable

Pills may be mixed with other harmful substances

Risks increase significantly when combined with alcohol or other drugs

Reported adverse effects may include:

Rapid heart rate and elevated blood pressure

Dangerous overheating (hyperthermia)

Severe dehydration

Confusion, agitation, collapse, seizures, or loss of consciousness

Guidance to the Public

Members of the public are strongly advised not to consume unknown or illicit pills marketed as “ecstasy,” “M**A,” or similar names.

Anyone experiencing severe symptoms after suspected drug use should seek immediate medical attention.

Information relating to the sale, distribution, or movement of illicit drugs should be reported to CANU or the nearest police station.

Ongoing Monitoring

The Guyana EWS continues to monitor emerging drug trends and will issue further advisories as necessary to protect public health and safety.

This alert is issued in the interest of public awareness and harm prevention.

Reports can be made confidentially via
Tel: 592-227-3503 / 592-226-0431
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE CIRCULATION

CUSTOMS ANTI NARCOTIC UNIT (CANU)
Guyana National Drug Authority

Cannabis v**e cartridges discovered, Issues National Early Warning Alert
On the 15th January, 2026, based on intelligence received, CANU Officers conducted an operation in Campbellville Housing Scheme, Georgetown, which resulted in the discovery and seizure of multiple branded THC cannabis v**es.
The seizure indicates an emerging shift toward the importation of high-potency cannabis concentrates disguised as consumer v**e products. The packaging is colourful, professionally printed, and designed to appeal to youths, increasing the risk of rapid spread if circulation is not contained. Chemical composition and potential contaminants remain unknown, and samples have been earmarked for laboratory analysis.
Under Guyana’s laws, these substances are 100% illegal regardless of packaging, branding, or foreign “medical use” labels.

WHY IS IT ILLEGAL
Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Cap. 10:10, cannabis and its derivatives are listed as controlled substances.
This classification includes the cannabis plant, cannabis resin, extracts and tinctures of cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and any product containing THC.
Live resin and THC v**e oil fall directly under cannabis resin and extracts, which are prohibited. Therefore, possession, trafficking, importation, or sale is illegal in Guyana.

The “for medical use only” labels on the boxes have no legal standing in Guyana and do not change the fact that the products are prohibited.

NO APPROVING LABELS

None of these labels corresponds to:

• The Guyana Food and Drug Department

• Any local licensing authority

• GFSL testing

• Any legal cannabis framework in Guyana

HEALTH EFFECTS OF CANNABIS VAPES

Cannabis v**es expose users to high concentrations of THC and unknown chemical additives, which can cause serious short-term and long-term health problems. Because these products are often unregulated or counterfeit, the risks are significantly higher.

GUYANA - EWS

Guyana’s Early Warning System (EWS), housed within the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit, also identifies these THC cartridges as high-risk emerging threats, particularly to minors. The EWS tracks trends, packaging styles, chemical profiles, and trafficking patterns linked to concentrated cannabis products. Once flagged, the system issues alerts, guides frontline officers, and feeds actionable intelligence into national enforcement operations.

Reports can be made confidentially via
Tel: 592-227-3503 / 592-226-0431
Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE CIRCULATION

CUSTOMS ANTI NARCOTIC UNIT (CANU)
Guyana National Drug Authority

CANU Confirms M**A (Ecstasy) Seizure, Issues National Early Warning Alert

The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) has issued a formal Early Warning System Alert after a targeted operation at MovieTowne, Georgetown, led to the seizure of multiple tablets confirmed to be 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (M**A), commonly known as ecstasy.

The operation, executed based on actionable intelligence, resulted in the interception of a vehicle with three occupants and the discovery of several zip-locked packages containing brightly coloured pills. Field testing indicated the presence of amphetamine-type stimulants, which was later forensically confirmed by the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL) to be M**A

CANU has classified the situation as EWS NOTICE LEVEL 2 – Emerging Circulation Confirmed, indicating that M**A is now present in Guyana in a context suggesting active distribution.

KEY PUBLIC SAFETY CONCERNS

Health officials and first responders are advised that M**A tablets vary widely in strength and may be adulterated with other dangerous substances. M**A use can lead to:

• Overheating and dehydration

• Rapid heart rate

• Confusion, agitation, or collapse

• Risk of seizures

• Heightened danger when mixed with alcohol or other drugs

M**A-related emergencies often occur in nightlife or party settings, and CANU is urging increased vigilance, especially among youth and young adults.

CANU’S WARNING TO THE PUBLIC

M**A remains illegal in Guyana under Schedule I of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Cap. 10:10. Possession, trafficking, or distribution can result in severe criminal penalties.

Members of the public are strongly advised not to consume unlabeled pills, regardless of colour, shape, or packaging. The tablets seized in this incident were pink and green and packaged in multiple small Ziplock bags.

AGENCY ACTIONS NOW UNDERWAY

Law Enforcement:

• Increased monitoring of entertainment districts

• Enhanced surveillance of micro-distribution networks

• Strengthened intelligence sharing with venue security teams

Health Sector:

• Alerts issued to emergency departments

• Monitoring for M**A-related cases

• Rapid reporting protocols enforced via GUYDIN/EWS channels

CALL FOR PUBLIC COOPERATION

CANU encourages the public and private sectors, especially parents, nightlife operators, and community leaders, to assist by reporting suspicious activities or unfamiliar pills circulating among youth.

Reports can be made confidentially via
Tel: 592-227-3503 / 592-226-0431
Email: [email protected]