Authorities Destroy 336 Acres of Cannabis in Dodoma

Authorities in Tanzania have intensified their fight against illegal drug cultivation after uncovering and destroying 336 acres of cannabis farms hidden within Ikome Forest Reserve in Kondoa District, Dodoma Region.

The operation, led by the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) in collaboration with security forces, also resulted in the seizure of 148 kilograms of khat.

According to DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo, the discovery of such large-scale cannabis cultivation in Dodoma is alarming and highlights the need for continued vigilance.

“This is the first operation of this magnitude in Dodoma, which shows that cannabis farming is expanding into new areas. We are committed to ensuring that illegal drug production and trade are completely eradicated,” Lyimo said on February 18 during the operation.

Authorities revealed that the cannabis had been planted among legitimate crops in an attempt to evade detection. However, intelligence-led investigations helped uncover the hidden farms, leading to their destruction.

The latest operation is part of a broader crackdown on illegal drug activities across Tanzania. From January to February 2025, DCEA reported seizing over 790 kilograms of various narcotics in multiple regions, including Arusha, Mwanza, Mbeya, Mtwara, and Dar es Salaam. In addition to the destruction of cannabis farms, 114 individuals were arrested for their involvement in drug-related activities.

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In a separate raid in Dar es Salaam, law enforcement officers arrested three suspects found with 32.16 kilograms of high-grade cannabis, commonly known as skunk. Meanwhile, another four individuals were apprehended in possession of 5.1 kilograms of heroin, along with five liters of Caffeine Anhydrous Pure, a chemical often used to increase the volume of certain narcotics.

Authorities have vowed to continue their crackdown, warning that no region will be exempt from efforts to eliminate drug trafficking and illegal cultivation. The government has also urged communities to collaborate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities that could be linked to drug production and distribution.

With drug-related crimes posing a growing challenge, law enforcement agencies remain determined to curb the trade and protect communities from its harmful effects.