Guyana strengthens forensic capacity to combat transnational crime

Guyana is implementing measures to strengthen its forensic capabilities and combat transnational organized crime. Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond announced plans to expand the local forensic laboratory to include ballistics testing and toxicology analysis. This expansion aims to reduce reliance on overseas testing and prevent criminal cases from faltering due to a lack of local evidence processing capacity.

To support these efforts, approximately 500 police officers have been trained in evidence processing. The government is also providing legal training and scholarships for police prosecutors to improve court presentations and prosecution success rates.

Addressing security concerns, Minister Walrond stated that the government is working to prevent Guyana from becoming a safe haven or transshipment point for international drug trafficking networks targeting African and European markets. The strategy involves an inter-agency approach and increased cooperation with international partners, including Interpol and the United States Marshal Service, to disrupt criminal organizations exploiting the country’s geography and transportation networks.