MARIJUANA farming is reportedly increasing in Malaita Province.
Despite the legal prohibition of marijuana cultivation and use, locals continue to engage in cultivating the drug for sale, with some owning large-scale farms.
Reports indicate that marijuana farming activities are primarily taking place in rural areas of the province, where police presence is limited, making it difficult for authorities to track and arrest the culprits.
Marijuana has become a significant source of income for some individuals in the province.
According to a recent police report, up to 2,000 marijuana plants were recently uprooted from seven separate gardens in West Kwaio.
The successful police operation was conducted along the Kwainafala River where police officers seized the plants.
However, no arrests were made in connection to the raid.
“Up to 2,000 marijuana plants were uprooted from seven separate garden plantations recently following a police raid,” Assistant Commissioner for National Capital and Crime Prevention, Simpon Pogeava said.
AC Pogeava said the seven gardens served as the major sources of marijuana supply to other parts of the province.
He expressed concern over the widespread impact of marijuana on communities in Malaita and across the country, stating that it has caused significant social and health problems.
AC Pogeava also confirmed that the local community has largely supported the police’s actions in dismantling these illegal marijuana operations.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
Source: https://www.solomonstarnews.com/marijuana-farming-in-malaita-on-the-rise/
