TNAG-1709-FCO40-2384-Hong-Kong-narcotics-offences-and-drug-trafficking-1988 — Page 28

-19-

VENEZUELA

Summary.

for marijuana and coca slaying of nine national Moreover, we believe that

Venezuela's concern production has heightened with the guardsmen on an eradication mission. Venezuela's role as

as a pipeline from Colombia to the U.S. and Europe is increasing. The GOV has also demonstrated increased interest in anti-money laundering legislation. End Summary.

In May, the National Guard sighted

Guard sighted commercial plots of coca in the Perija Mountains and the state of Tachira, both bordering Colombia. When Venezuelan National Guard moved in to eradicate the coca they suffered a serious setback when one of their units was attacked in a dawn ambush. Nine guardsmen died in the attack--highlighting the potential dangers that traffickers pose to Venezuelan security.

cultivation

Although the extent of the marijuana/coca problem does not bear comparison to Colombia, Peru or Bolivia, Venezuela is becoming a key transshipment point for drugs bound for the U.S. Venezuelan recognition of the problem has become increasingly evident from GOV public statements and press coverage on narcotics. There are also indications that the GOV is considering aerial herbicide spraying and will increase personnel and resources to deal with the narcotics problem. The U.S. plans to assist the Venezuelans in repairing and maintaining helicopters devoted to anti-narcotics work and by developing an effective communications network for narcotics work.

Venezuela does not have any anti-money laundering legislation. However, the Venezuelan executive and legislative branches appear to be interested in drafting laws to regulate currency exchange.