Maghreb Edition

Morocco: Authorities find large quantities of cannabis buried in sand in the southwestF

Posted On 8 February 2021

Number of times this article was read : 410

Nearly 9.2 tonnes of cannabis resin hidden in bales buried in sand were seized in southwestern Morocco, the national security service said Saturday. The DGSN security service said in a statement that the drugs were uncovered in the Guelmim region and an investigation had been opened. It was the latest in a series of recent reported substantial seizures, including over a tonne of cannabis found on the backs of a herd of  unaccompanied camels in December.  In October alone, authorities announced one seizure of over 11 tonnes of cannabis resin and another of nearly five tonnes. Morocco is one of the world’s top cannabis producers, although the authorities say they are cracking down.

The North Africa Journal's WhatsApp Group
.

Most Recent Stories from the Region

Morocco’s Lawyers Push Back Against Proposed Changes to Bar Governance✓

A proposed law governing Morocco’s legal profession has triggered protests and a nationwide strike, as lawyers accuse the Justice Ministry of sidelining consultations and expanding executive oversight. The dispute suggests broader tensions over professional independence, regulatory authority, and the future of Morocco’s legal market.

Mali: Gold Mining Site in Sikasso Region Hit by Armed Group✓

An armed attack on the Morila gold mine in southern Mali caused material damage and forced a temporary suspension of operations. Security forces were deployed to regain control of the site, and employees held during the incident were released unharmed. The attack highlights ongoing security risks facing economic infrastructure across the Sahel.

Burkina Faso: Deep Supply Weaknesses in Ouagadougou Amid Seasonal Butane Shortages✓

Each year between December and January, Ouagadougou faces a renewed shortage of butane gas just as household demand peaks. The recurring tension on supply, linked to limited stocks, uneven distribution and a shortage of empty cylinders for refilling, is forcing many families to fall back on charcoal and firewood, with financial, health and environmental consequences.

Written by The North Africa Journal

The North Africa Journal is a leading English-language publication focused on North Africa. The Journal covers primarily the Maghreb region and expands its general coverage to the Sahel, Egypt, and beyond, when events in those regions affect the broader North Africa geography. The Journal does not have any affiliation with any institution and has been independent since its founding in 1996. Our position is to always bring our best analysis of events affecting the region, and remain as neutral as humanly possible. Our coverage is not limited to one single topic, but ranges from economic and political affairs, to security, defense, social and environmental issues. We rely on our full staff analysts and editors to bring you best-in-class analysis. We also work with sister company MEA Risk LLC, to leverage the presence on the ground of a solid network of contributors and experts. Information on MEA Risk can be found at www.MEA-Risk.com.