|
Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
|
|
Lebanon: ISF Chief Supervizes Hashish Destruction
Morshed al-Ali Daily Star, Lebanon
Thursday 04 Aug 2005 BEKAA: Internal Security Forces director general Major General Ashraf Rifi supervised the destruction of hashish crops in several areas of the Bekaa, reiterating the authorities' determination to prohibit the cultivation of drugs in Lebanon. Rifi, who was accompanied by a number of high-ranking security officials, said the campaign would continue for 10 days, after which all hashish crops would be eliminated. He explained that there are six axes for investigation and eradication, each of which is supervised by an officer. Rifi expressed his surprise at the extent of cultivation, which he attributed to "neglect," noting that "residents did not expect their crops to be eradicated, and thought that they could get away with it." All members of the security forces have been given orders to report any fields planted with drugs so that due process may take its course. According to the major general, Lebanon has entered a new phase in which the perpetrators of any illegal act will be punished. Rifi warned farmers that they must cease cultivating illicit crops, as the authorities will continue to follow their activities. He noted that the eradication process is very costly, as tractors and workers are being paid. Army personnel must also suspend their ordinary duties to supervise the work. Nevertheless, Rifi held that the campaign must be maintained at all costs, as the credibility of Lebanon and its security forces are at stake. Rifi announced that the ISF will submit a report proposing that negotiations be held with the United Nations and other organizations to help farmers improve their living conditions and earning power through legal means. Often, drug cultivation is the product of larger economic pressures, as growers turn to illegal agriculture when other job opportunities fail to provide them with a higher standard of living. Still, the cost of permitting cultivation is high. According to Rifi: "Drug cultivation is harmful and its effects reflect on all Lebanon and its society; it does not have any positive aspects."
After you have finished reading this article you can click here to go back.
|
This page was created by the Cannabis Campaigners' Guide.
Feel free to link to this page!