Conflict Incident Report

The Lebanese Army Tuesday seized a ton of hash during a raid in the northeastern Hermel district and arrested several wanted people, an Army statement reported.

The Army also reportedly seized 500 kg of cannabis seeds and a machine with which the hash is made, in addition to a small quantity of light ammunition.

The Army said the seized items were sent to “the competent authorities,” for “necessary action,” to be taken.

Baalbeck and Hermel are known for the illicit cultivation of cannabis and production of hashish. The Army regularly carries out raids in the impoverished region in order to destroy the crop and prevent trade of the drug.

Locals have long complained about the lack of alternative crops that can be grown in the area’s harsh conditions and of a lack of basic services, both of which have contributed to a dependency on the drug trade and general lawlessness.