Criminal Networks Flourish in Guyana Amidst Political Instability

Guyana’s porous borders with Venezuela, Suriname, and Brazil have created an ideal environment for criminal organizations to thrive. The government’s lack of presence in these areas has allowed international gangs to establish themselves, often with the complicity of corrupt state actors.

A Network of Criminal Organizations

• Venezuelan networks dominate human trafficking and smuggling activities in Guyana
  • Forcing laborers into illegal mining operations and prostitution rings
• Foreign criminal groups from Mexico, Italy, and Colombia are heavily involved in cocaine, fauna, arms trafficking, and heroin markets
  • Exploiting the country’s lack of resources and corrupt officials

Corruption within the Government

• Officials at all levels are allegedly involved in illicit economies
• Corporate actors report favoritism towards competitors who bribe officials
• Law enforcement officers are notorious for extorting refugees and smugglers

Criminal Justice System in Crisis

Guyana’s judicial system is crippled by:

Limited Resources and Staff Shortages

• One of the lowest numbers of judges and magistrates in the Caribbean
• Low conviction rate due to lack of resources

Political Interference

• Corruption among prison officials, with pre-trial detention periods exceeding maximum sentences
• Police violence, detainee abuse, and harsh prison conditions are widespread

Economic and Financial Challenges

Money laundering is a significant concern in Guyana:

Cash Deposits and Cross-Border Transport

• Large cash deposits and cross-border transport of concealed precious metals fuel illegal activities
• Italian mafia accused of using the country’s financial system to launder hundreds of millions annually

Overhauling Anti-Money Laundering Capabilities

• Efforts hindered by bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption
• Discovery of rich oil and natural gas reserves presents new challenges for Guyana

Civil Society Under Pressure

Refugees in Guyana face:

Inadequate Support Services

• Victims of gender-based violence and sex trafficking struggle to access support services
• NGOs report extortion by migration officials and lack of training on trauma counseling

Restrictions on Freedom of the Press

• Government officials file defamation cases and threaten journalists
• State-run media outlets display bias towards the ruling party
• Concerns about government use of spyware to monitor journalists

In this environment of political instability, corruption, and organized crime, Guyana’s citizens struggle for basic rights and protections. The country’s future remains uncertain, with its criminal networks and corrupt institutions posing significant challenges to development and growth.