Crackdown on Secret Cultivation, Distribution, and Use
in Fishing Villages and Island Regions
Jeonnam Yeosu Maritime Police Station (Chief Choi Kyungkeun) announced that they have launched a focused crackdown on the secret cultivation and illegal use of cannabis and poppies in fishing villages and island regions.
According to the Yeosu Maritime Police, from April 1 to July 31, a four-month special enforcement will be conducted targeting the illegal cultivation of poppies and cannabis in coastal and island areas, where external surveillance is difficult, in line with the poppy blooming season (May to June) and cannabis harvest season (July). The crackdown will also address drug smuggling and distribution through ports and fishing harbors.
Yeosu Coast Guard conducts special crackdowns on illegal cultivation of poppies and hemp in areas difficult to monitor such as coastal and island regions during the poppy flowering season (May to June) and hemp harvesting season (July), as well as on drug smuggling and distribution through ports and fishing harbors. Photo by Yeosu Coast Guard
In this special operation, as cases of domestic and international drug trafficking organizations smuggling and distributing drugs via maritime routes have increased, the authorities will conduct surprise inspections of vessels and maritime cargo. Preventive activities will also be carried out to stop maritime workers from becoming involved in drug-related crimes.
Poppy is classified as a natural narcotic plant, and opium can be extracted from its fruit and processed into powerful drugs such as morphine, heroin, and codeine, which can be abused.
Additionally, cannabis may only be cultivated for extremely limited purposes, such as by licensed narcotics handlers for obtaining fiber or seeds, or by authorized researchers for academic studies.
A Yeosu Maritime Police official stated, "Even cultivating small amounts for folk remedies is clearly illegal," adding, "We will do our utmost to eradicate the rapidly increasing drug crimes."
The official further urged, "If you suspect illegal drug cultivation in concealed locations such as greenhouses, vegetable gardens, or gardens in fishing villages or mountain areas, please report it to the nearest maritime police station."
If caught cultivating, purchasing, or using poppies or cannabis, which are classified as narcotics, without authorization, offenders may face up to five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million won under the Act on the Control of Narcotics.
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