Guam Customs Director Discusses Drug Interception Efforts at Rotary Club Luncheon

Ignacio Q. 'Ike' Peredo, the Director of the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency, spoke about the agency's efforts to intercept illegal drugs, particularly methamphetamine, at Guam's entry points during a Rotary Club of Tumon Bay luncheon held at the Hyatt Regency Guam on April 23, 2024.

Peredo explained that the amount of methamphetamine seized in the mail has decreased in the past two years due to the arrests of "several of the major leaders dealing ice." In 2020, the agency saw a significant increase in methamphetamine seizures, reaching nearly 200 pounds in 2021. To address this, Peredo worked with the U.S. Postal Service to create a task force and deputize Customs officers, which has contributed to the decrease in seizures in 2022 and 2023.

The agency has also invested in drug K-9s, Tru-Narc detection devices, and employed more Customs officers to combat drug trafficking. Peredo noted that the arrest of a major drug leader, Melvin John Salas Naputi, in 2021 has led to a decrease in methamphetamine being mailed to Guam.

Several recent cases of methamphetamine seizures at Guam's entry points were detailed, with packages containing up to 16 pounds of the drug being intercepted.

Director Peredo's discussion at the Rotary Club luncheon emphasizes the ongoing commitment of the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency to combat the influx of illegal drugs, particularly methamphetamine, into Guam. The agency's multifaceted approach, including collaboration with the U.S. Postal Service, investment in detection technology and K-9 units, and the arrest of key drug leaders, has resulted in a notable decrease in methamphetamine seizures in recent years. However, the continued interception of significant drug packages highlights the need for sustained vigilance and proactive measures to protect the community from the harmful effects of illegal substances.

Key Takeaways

• Guam Customs intercepted decrease in meth seizures due to arrests of major dealers.
• Customs partnered with USPS, used K-9s, and Tru-Narc devices to combat drug trafficking.
• Arrest of a major drug leader, Melvin John Salas Naputi, led to meth decrease.
• Customs intercepted packages with up to 16 lbs of meth at Guam's entry points.
• Customs' efforts disrupted drug trafficking and protected public health and safety.