MORE than 47,000 marijuana plants, with an estimated street value of $47.3million, have been uprooted during police operations targeting drug cultivation in Cakaudrove, Vanua Levu.
This was revealed by the Fiji Police Force in its report while updating district representatives of Cakaudrove of its drug operation in the Northern Division.
In the report, the Fiji Police Force said a total of 47,397 plants had been destroyed through four waves of operations conducted in known drug cultivation hotspots.
“Total drugs uprooted 47,397. It’s estimated street value is $47,397,000,” the report stated.
Police said 13,007 plants were uprooted during wave one of the operation, while 20,226 plants were destroyed in wave two.
“A total of 1332 plants were uprooted in wave three, while another 12,832 plants were destroyed during wave four.”
Police said 23 arrests were made at farms linked to drug cultivation, while another 54 arrests were conducted through roadblock operations.
“Total number of arrest done at the farm was 23 and on road block was 54.”
The Fiji Police Force said roadblock operations had resulted in the seizure of 44 sachets of dried leaves, 17 bullets, 54 loose dried leaves and $4000 believed to be proceeds of crime.
Apart from marijuana, police said, four arrests were made in Labasa for methamphetamine-related offences.
“There were four arrest made for Labasa for methamphetamine. Three have been charged and one was awaiting analysis report.”
The report stated police had focused anti-drug operations within the Golden Triangle area, comprising the districts of Tunuloa, Natewa, Cakaudrove Vanua, Navatu and Naweni.
Operations remain ongoing, with enforcement teams continuing targeted activities in upper Golden Triangle areas, including Salia Village, Bailout, Manuasi, Devon, Kalana and parts of Navonu in the district of Cakaudrove Vanua.
https://www.fijitimes.com.fj/47m-worth-marijuana-plants-uprooted/
