As a result of a large-scale joint operation conducted yesterday by specialized teams of Bulgarian law enforcement agencies, significant illegal cannabis plantations were uncovered in two areas of Southwestern Bulgaria. A total of 951 cannabis plants with an impressive weight of approximately 1,795 kilograms were discovered and destroyed.
The operation is the result of coordinated efforts by criminologists from the Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Interior in Blagoevgrad, teams from the General Directorate "National Police" and specialists from the Special Air Surveillance Unit of the General Directorate "Border Police". This demonstrates the seriousness of the problem and the authorities' determination to tackle the illegal cultivation of narcotic substances.
The main part of the discovered plants - about 890 with a total weight of approximately 1,725 kilograms - were planted in two separate fields located in a forested area in the land of Belyovo village, Sandanski municipality. This discovery highlights the ingenuity of criminal groups trying to hide their illegal activities in hard-to-reach areas.
Additionally, another 61 plants weighing 70 kilograms were found in a field in the land of Churilovo village, Petrich municipality. This shows that the problem is not limited to one location but is spread across different parts of the region.
After their discovery, all plants were subjected to a field test, which confirmed that they were cannabis. In accordance with legal procedures, the plants were destroyed on site under the supervision of a special commission, ensuring transparency of the process.
The discoveries have led to the initiation of pre-trial proceedings, indicating that the authorities intend to pursue those responsible with the full severity of the law. According to experts, the scale of the discovered plantations suggests organized criminal activity rather than isolated cases of individual cultivation.
The operation is part of the ongoing efforts of Bulgarian law enforcement agencies to combat the production and distribution of narcotic substances. It demonstrates the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation and the use of modern technologies, including aerial surveillance, in the fight against drug trafficking.
The authorities emphasize that the investigation continues, with additional actions expected to uncover the entire criminal chain associated with these illegal plantations. This successful operation is expected to have a significant impact on the supply of illegal cannabis in the region and potentially throughout the country.
Drug control experts welcome these actions but warn that constant efforts and vigilance are needed to effectively counteract illegal drug production in Bulgaria.