U.S. Postal Inspection Service Makes Big Impact with GIANT (Guam Interdictions and Anti-Narcotics Trafficking) Task Force

Guam – The United States Postal Inspection Service today announces the results of our Guam Interdictions and Anti-Narcotics Trafficking (GIANT) Task Force, an initiative to combat drug trafficking through the mail—a mission priority for the Postal Inspection Service.

We created the GIANT Task Force in 2021 and partnered with crucial local stakeholders to stem the flow of illegal drugs to the island of Guam. The deputized task force officers from the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency and Guam Police Department remain full-time employees of Guam agencies but are credentialed to investigate crimes involving the mail alongside postal inspectors. Over the last four years, the GIANT Task Force has contributed to the seizure of more than 780 pounds of controlled substances, including more than 600 pounds of methamphetamines. Additionally, the task force made 29 arrests related to narcotic offenses and seized more than $550,000 in suspected narcotics trafficking proceeds.

“Thanks to the hard work, long hours, and shared commitment of our local and federal partners, the GIANT Task Force has been a resounding success in the fight to keep drugs out of the communities of Guam,” said U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Stephen Sherwood, of the Postal Inspection Service’s San Francisco Division. “While we celebrate our successes, we know the work continues and we remain focused on our mission. We especially thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency, Guam Police Department, and Guam Army National Guard Counter Drug Program for their steadfast partnership and continued collaboration.”

“We recognize that Guam continues to grapple with serious drug-related challenges, but this operation reflects what is possible when our task force officers are well-trained, well-supported, and focused on their mission.” said Col. Barbara C. Tayama, Acting Director of the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency.” Guam is not merely a transit point, but our home, and keeping her safe demands constant vigilance and strategic coordination across agencies. The threat of narcotics trafficking does not pause, and neither can we.”

“The Guam Police Department (GPD) remains committed to supporting the efforts of the GIANT Task Force. In collaboration with GPD’s Special Investigations Section, and the Postal Inspection Service. Our cooperation with fellow local and federal partners will significantly contribute to making the people of Guam safer by disrupting narcotics trafficking networks. We are grateful that Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio deputized our employees to serve alongside postal inspectors,” said Stephen C. Ignacio, Chief of Police, Guam Police Department.