Rabat – Beni Mellal police foiled a major drug trafficking operation involving nearly four tons of cannabis resin (shira) in the early hours of this morning.
The operation was carried out by the police and the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST). It took place at a farm in a rural area near Souk Sebt Oulad Nemma, a town in Fquih Ben Salah Province.
A 35-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene, according to a security source.
Authorities seized 3.96 tons of cannabis resin stored in a warehouse on the farm. Two cargo vehicles and a sum of money, suspected to be linked to drug trafficking, were also confiscated.
The arrested suspect has been placed in custody under the supervision of the public prosecutor’s office. Meanwhile, authorities continue their investigation to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in this criminal activity.
The incident follows another major drug bust at Casablanca Port around a week ago. National Security Services and Customs at the port successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle 3.61 tons of cannabis resin hidden inside an international shipping container.
Destined for a European port, the shipment was carefully hidden inside a cargo of fish meal.
In the wake of the bust, police conducted an extensive raid on a fish meal factory in Safi. Authorities thoroughly searched the premises of the factory and questioned staff to establish whether the drugs were planted inside or outside the facility.
In 2023, Moroccan police recorded 99,513 drug trafficking cases and arrested 130,212 individuals involved in these activities.
During this period, police seized a total of 81 tons and 175 kilograms of cannabis, a 17% decrease compared to 2022.
