Cape Verde Police Seize 413kg Cannabis in Santiago Raid
The Cape Verdean Judicial Police (PJ) dealt a significant blow to domestic narcotics production on Thursday, dismantling three major cannabis plantations in the rugged interior of Santiago Island. The early morning raid resulted in the seizure of 413 kilograms of the drug and the impounding of a vehicle linked to the illicit operation.
Coordination and Execution
The operation took place in the municipality of São Salvador do Mundo, specifically targeting the Picos Acima area. According to a statement released by the PJ, the intervention was the culmination of an intelligence-led investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department of Assomada. Officers executed court-ordered search warrants with the tactical support of the National Police.
The Seizure
Upon securing the agricultural plots, authorities discovered large-scale cannabis cultivation. While the bulk of the 413-kilogram seizure consisted of raw plants, investigators confirmed that approximately 6.1 kilograms had already been processed and packaged, ready for immediate distribution and sale on the local market.
Ongoing Investigation
In addition to the narcotics, police seized a light-duty vehicle suspected of being used to transport the crops. While no arrests were reported immediately following the raid, the PJ stated that the owner of the vehicle is a primary person of interest.
The operation is part of a broader, ongoing effort to combat internal drug trafficking within Cape Verde. Authorities have confirmed that investigations are continuing as they work to identify the masterminds behind the plantation and determine if the site is linked to larger organized crime networks.
Image: Pexels – Diego Barros
