TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwanese authorities have dismantled the largest marijuana cultivation operation in the country, seizing 5,659 plants with a market value exceeding NT$2 billion (US$62 million), the Criminal Investigation Bureau announced Tuesday (Oct. 15).
A 34-year-old male surnamed Chih (池), a member of the Three Circle (San Huan Gang, 三環幫) gang, had invested millions of dollars to establish a dust-free marijuana cultivation facility with his associates. The case was initiated in May when authorities received intelligence about a gang's illegal marijuana operations in Hsinchu, per CNA.
While conducting a regular inspection, police found another illegal marijuana factory. Further investigation revealed that both factories were operated by the same drug trafficking group.
A joint task force was formed to investigate the operation which led to the arrest of Chih and 10 other gang members. Authorities also seized 5,659 marijuana plants, 1,666 seeds, and related equipment.
In addition to the factory bust, law enforcement agencies have been intensifying efforts to uncover the hidden number of marijuana users in Taiwan. In March and September, the National Police Agency launched two nationwide campaigns that apprehended 565 individuals suspected of marijuana use this year.
In 2023, authorities seized 468.2 kg of finished marijuana and 5,896 plants. However, from January to September, the amount seized increased significantly to 1,589.44 kg of marijuana products and 9,795 plants.
Despite a significant increase in marijuana seizures, the number of people arrested for marijuana use has not kept pace. This suggests that the supply of marijuana far exceeds the demand, indicating a large number of undetected users.
Law enforcement agencies are stepping up their efforts to uncover these hidden users and crack down on marijuana networks.
