Four men are in custody following a police operation that uncovered more than 500 cannabis plants and nearly 1,000 pounds of cured marijuana at an illegal plantation near Pares Village on Thursday.
According to Antigua News Room, Assistant Superintendent of Police Frankie Thomas confirmed that the operation targeted growers operating without the licences required for medicinal or sacramental cannabis cultivation. Thomas noted that while Antigua and Barbuda permits limited personal possession and cultivation of cannabis, the scale of the seized plantation far exceeded what is legally allowed.
A joint law enforcement team — comprising police, Customs, Immigration and other specialised units — carried out the raid shortly after 10 a.m. Authorities said the seized cannabis plants and marijuana will be destroyed once the investigation is completed.
Thomas confirmed that charges will be brought against individuals where appropriate. He reaffirmed law enforcement's commitment to dismantling illegal drug operations and protecting public safety across communities.
