Customs officials said they have intensified their drug interdiction efforts following successful seizures of millions of dollars’ worth of drugs last year.
However, they are alerting the public the public to the challenges posed by synthetic drugs entering the market.
In an exclusive interview with Observer, Comptroller of Customs Raju Boddu detailed how his department adapts to evolving smuggling tactics and emerging threats.
“Even though our country is a very small country, it is typically located on the eastern seaboard and serves not only for consuming incidents but also in the Transatlantic market,” Boddu said, underscoring the strategic importance of the region in international drug trafficking routes.
The Customs & Excise Division has recorded significant successes in its efforts last year, Boddu said.
“In 2024, we had 24 interdictions; about 375 pounds of cannabis were interdicted, and also about 40 pounds of cocaine,” he noted.
These seizures, along with several firearms and ammunition, accounted for major disruptions to drug trafficking operations, with street values estimated at $2.4 million for cannabis and $1.5 million for cocaine.
Of particular concern to Customs officials is the rising threat of synthetic drugs. Unlike traditional drugs such as cannabis and cocaine, which are derived from natural sources, synthetic drugs present unique challenges for law enforcement.
“The latest issue is the most dangerous thing, is that now synthetic drugs are increasing in the market. Synthetics are manufactured in a lab. Once you know the chemical composition of the drug, you can reconstruct it in the lab, and that is more deadly, lethal, and harmful to the population,” the comptroller pointed out.
Among the synthetic drugs that are being trafficked into Antigua and Barbuda are ecstasy, LSD, and Fentanyl derivatives, Boddu said.
The fight against drug trafficking has required Customs to establish robust international partnerships, and the department actively participates in operations coordinated by the World Customs Organization and maintains intelligence-sharing networks with regional and international partners. This collaborative approach extends to local law enforcement, with Customs working closely with the police and other agencies.
Source countries for drug trafficking remain consistent, with Jamaica, Canada, and Colombia identified as primary origins. Interdiction efforts focus on multiple entry points, including VC Bird International Airport, along with Jolly Harbour and English Harbour, where private yachts are closely monitored.
Boddu said Customs has implemented a systematic approach to suspicious cargo.
“When a barrel arrives in Jolly Harbour, we scan it, and if we suspect there’s some illegal substance in it, immediately, we don’t touch it,” Boddu explained. “We call the police. In the presence of the police, and if the consignee is available, we open and check,” he added.
Looking ahead, Customs is soliciting public cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking.
“In 2025, especially in the field of drugs, if you see it, tell us, and I can promise you more confidentiality. Together we can fight drug abuse.”
The Comptroller also indicated that improvements have been undertaken throughout the department, which made doing business at the port more efficient over the past few years.
