Morocco’s Judicial Police and territory surveillance services seized 11 tons plus 568 kg of cannabis resin, known as “chira,” in the Greater Casablanca area, in a joint operation targeting Mohammedia, Bouznika, and El Jadida, three major coastal cities to the north and south of Casablanca on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to a police news release.
In the Mohammedia/Bouznika sting, the agencies confiscated 4 tons and 168 kg of chira. Authorities were in pursuit of a van when the driver changed direction, abandoned the vehicle, and fled on foot. A search of the vehicle uncovered the large quantity of drugs packed in 110 bags. The driver was caught near Ksar El Kebir with a companion.
The El Jadida operation on Wednesday resulted in the arrest of four people and the seizure of seven tons and 400kg of cannabis resin. Authorities also seized two boats, three marine engines, 107 plastic containers of fuel, and 11 pumps.
Six suspects are now in police custody pending further investigation by the public prosecutor’s office.