Pubdate: Mon, 03 Sep 2001
Source: Chicago Tribune (IL)
Copyright: 2001 Chicago Tribune Company
Contact:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/82
Author: Tribune News Services

REPORT CRITICIZES DRUG-CROP SPRAYING

BOGOTA, COLOMBIA -- A Colombian government report has raised fresh doubts 
about the U.S. drug-fighting strategy, saying aerial fumigation of crops 
may be damaging the environment and failing to curb drug production.

The report, released over the weekend by the comptroller-general's office, 
urged President Andres Pastrana to halt the spraying of drug crops until 
scientists can study the environmental effects of the herbicide.

The spraying of cocaine and heroin-producing crops is a major component of 
Pastrana's Plan Colombia, an anti-drug strategy supported by $1.3 billion 
in U.S. aid.

Gonzalo de Francisco, the government's adviser in the effort, said the plan 
is on track and criticism based on environmental damage was unfounded.
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MAP posted-by: Beth