Mokpo Coast Guard to Intensify Crackdown During Poppy Blooming and Cannabis Harvest Seasons

Creating a Safe Marine Environment Free from Drugs

Mokpo Maritime Police Station (Chief Kwon Oseong) announced on the 7th that it will conduct an intensive crackdown on illegal activities such as the illicit cultivation of cannabis and poppy until July 31, coinciding with the poppy blooming season and cannabis harvest period.

The maritime police plan to eradicate the distribution and supply of narcotics through strong enforcement against illegal cultivation, use, production, and trafficking of cannabis and poppy in concealed locations such as greenhouses and small gardens in fishing villages and island areas.

Mokpo Coast Guard is cracking down on poppies. Photo by Mokpo Coast Guard Station

In addition, to completely block the supply of narcotics from external sources, the authorities will also conduct crackdowns on the distribution of smuggled drugs via sea routes such as international passenger ships and ocean-going vessels, as well as drug use by both domestic and foreign maritime workers.

Accordingly, the maritime police are raising public awareness by promoting the dangers of narcotics and the plan for intensive crackdowns on illegal cultivators through banners, electronic displays, and social networking services (SNS).

A Mokpo Maritime Police official stated, "We will work to eradicate illegal activities through intensive crackdowns on drug offenders such as the illicit cultivation of cannabis and poppy, and strive to create a safe marine environment free from drugs."