Caulonia, a "green empire" discovered in Locride: Carabinieri seize a large marijuana plantation.

Un “green empire” hidden among the woods of LocrideThe discovery during the roundups: sophisticated irrigation system and intensive cultivation.

A true open-air drug factory, camouflaged in the rugged countryside of Locride. It is here that the Carabinieri found amassive marijuana plantation, composed by over two thousand Cannabis Sativa shrubs, grown with advanced techniques and served by a complex irrigation system.

The discovery was made during acombing activity conducted by the military of the Caulonia Carabinieri Station, together with colleagues from the Helicopter Squadron “Cacciatori Calabria”. The cultivation, in terms of size and organisation, had taken on the characteristics of a real illegal agricultural enterprise, ready to release huge quantities of drugs onto the market.

The discovery highlights, once again, how the the most inaccessible rural areas of Locride can become a refuge for aunderground and profitable economy, powered by criminal groups able to exploit the isolation and thick vegetation to conceal their activities.

But it is precisely in these territories that are difficult to control that thedaily action of the Carabinieri: a widespread presence that starts from Stations in the area and is strengthened with the strategic contribution of the specialized units, Such as'8th Helicopter Unit of Vibo Valentia and “Calabria Hunters” SquadronA collective effort that guarantees control even in the most remote areas, taking away enormous economic resources from organised crime every year.

Il seizure of the plantation therefore represents a significant blow to the drug market, as well as a strong signal of the constant prevention and contrast activity implemented by the Carabinieri in Locride.