It currently lacks equipment and funds to conduct effective operations. The new narcotics squad office remains under construction, awaiting Dutch financing. The Dutch have lagged in providing long-promised finances and have not conducted assistance visits, hindering local police ability to focus their efforts on narcotics investigative activities. The Surinamese military generally does not cooperate with domestic or foreign anti-narcotics efforts. An updated narcotics law, which includes such measures as asset forfeiture and criminal conspiracy provisions, remains under review.
Corruption is pervasive among customs, immigration and police personnel.
Authorities have arrested prison guards and wardens for facilitating the escape of a Brazilian drug trafficker jailed in Suriname. Although military officials continue to enjoy immunity from arrest or prosecution by civilian officials, according to Surinamese law, GOS officials are taking steps to train investigators and prosecutors on completing cases on drug trafficking and related crime. Agreements and Treaties. Suriname is a party to the 1988 UN Convention, as well as the 1961 UN Convention, its 1972 protocol, and the 1971 UN Convention. Suriname and the Netherlands signed and ratified an MLAA in 1995.