Pubdate: Wed, 16 Oct 2002
Source: Japan Today (Japan)
Copyright: 2002, Japan Today
Contact:  http://www.japantoday.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2264
Author:  Kyodo News

AFGHAN PROVINCE TO COMBAT POPPY GROWING

ISLAMABAD -- Authorities in Hilmand Province in southwestern Afghanistan 
have established a special force of 300 to keep a check on opium poppy 
cultivation in the province, Afghan Islamic Press (AIP) reported Tuesday.

The Pakistan-based news agency quoted a spokesman from the provincial 
governor as contradicting reports that poppy cultivation has reappeared in 
the province, adding the special 300-strong force has been established to 
eradicate poppy cultivation.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth