Pubdate: Sun, 23 Oct 2005
Source: Sunstar Zamboanga (Philippines)
Copyright: 2005 Sunstar Zamboanga.
Contact:  http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2987
Author: Al Jacinto
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/areas/Philippines

TROOPS DESTROY SAYYAF 'CANNABIS' FARM IN SULU

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Troops tracking down Abu Sayyaf militants have
tumbled into a large marijuana plantation in the southern Philippine
island of Jolo, Sulu, officials said Saturday.

Officials said troops discovered the illegal plantation in the
hinterland village of Patao in Maimbung town, where security forces
were tracking down the Abu Sayyaf.

More soldiers and policemen were sent to the villages to secure the
plantation, as troops combed the area for bombs or booby traps.

No arrest was made, but officials said security forces destroyed the
plantation, believed owned by the Abu Sayyaf militants tied to the
al-Qaeda.

"At least 3,000 fully grown marijuana plants were uprooted and
soldiers destroyed the plantation," said the Southern Command
information chief, Army Major Gamal Hayudini.

He said the seized marijuana plants were handed over by the military
and police to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

Southern Command Chief, Lieutenant General Edilberto Adan on Saturday
lauded the soldiers for the discovery of the plantation and urged
citizens in Jolo island to help authorities by providing information
about illegal drugs.

"This is every body's concern and we should all stand up and unite to
fight the drug menace," Adan said. 
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