Authorities Seize $23M Worth of Illegal Cannabis in Oakland, US

Authorities Seize $23M Worth of Illegal Cannabis in Oakland, US

California’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce (UCETF) has carried out another significant crackdown on illegal cannabis operations, seizing more than $23 million worth of illicit products in East Oakland. The raid forms part of the state’s ongoing efforts to protect consumers, safeguard the regulated cannabis market, and hold offenders accountable.

The taskforce, established by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022, eradicated over 21,000 illegal cannabis plants valued at $17.8 million and confiscated over 3,000 pounds of cannabis flower worth another $5 million. Additional seizures included more than $10,000 in cash from unlicensed growers.

Governor Newsom highlighted the operation as a testament to California’s commitment to consumer safety and environmental protection, stating, “These efforts ensure that legal cannabis businesses can thrive without the unfair competition of illicit operators.”

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) spearheaded the operation with support from state and local agencies, including the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) and the Oakland Police. Chief of Law Enforcement at CDFW, Nathaniel Arnold, emphasised the environmental harm of such large-scale illegal industries, calling their removal vital to preserving the state’s natural resources.

UCETF’s work extends beyond Oakland, having removed nearly $20 million worth of illegal cannabis during recent operations in Hayward. Since its inception, the taskforce has seized over 162 tons of illegal cannabis valued at $536 million, arrested 59 individuals, and eradicated more than 526,000 unlicensed plants statewide.

This recent cannabis bust in Oakland highlights California’s firm commitment to tackling illegal cannabis activity, creating a safer market and maintaining strict regulatory and environmental standards.

Source: Governor Gavin Newson

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