Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Police in East Java have uncovered another marijuana farm hidden within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS), this time located in the village of Argosari, Senduro district, Lumajang Regency. The discovery is the second of its kind within a week, raising concerns about the illegal cultivation of marijuana in this protected area.
According to East Java Police Narcotics Director, Senior Commissioner Robert Da Costa, approximately 48,000 marijuana plants were found growing in the remote area. The total area of the plantation is estimated to cover 1.5 hectares, with the plants dispersed across steep cliffs near the popular tourist site, B29.
“We have identified around 48,000 marijuana plants so far. The farm spans 1.5 hectares, and the marijuana was planted in pockets across the cliffs. The location is near B29,” said Da Costa during a press briefing at the East Java Police Headquarters on Tuesday, September 24.
The discovery was made after a month-long investigation following a tip-off from local residents who reported suspicious activity. Police closely monitored the suspects before making arrests as the group prepared to harvest the illicit crop.
Four suspects, all local residents from Argosari, were arrested in connection with the marijuana farm. While police have not yet released the identities of the suspects, Da Costa confirmed that they were responsible for cultivating the plants.
“Four suspects have been arrested, and they were the ones cultivating the marijuana,” he stated.
Investigations revealed that the marijuana was intended for local distribution within East Java, not for export. The plants were reportedly sown in January 2024, with some already harvested while others were nearing harvest time.
In an attempt to avoid detection, the suspects planted the marijuana among wild vegetation and shrubs, making it difficult to spot. The plantation was spread over a wide area, with plants spaced 100 to 200 meters apart on steep, rugged terrain. This strategic planting made it challenging for authorities and locals to discover the farm.
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Da Costa emphasized that the investigation is ongoing as police work to uncover the broader network involved in the cultivation and distribution of marijuana in East Java.
“We are certain there are more individuals involved, whether as masterminds, financiers, or distributors. We will continue to investigate until we have dismantled the entire network,” he added.
Second Discovery in a Week
This recent find marks the second marijuana farm uncovered within TNBTS in just one week. On September 19, Lumajang Police, in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, discovered a marijuana plantation on the slopes of Mount Semeru, also within the administrative boundaries of Argosari village, Senduro district.
In that case, police found 365 mature marijuana plants, ranging in height from 1.5 to 2 meters, with an estimated age of three to four months. Two local residents were arrested in connection with the illegal farm, which was hidden deep within the park’s terrain, much like the more recent discovery.
Authorities continue to ramp up efforts to combat the illegal drug trade in East Java, especially within the confines of national parks, which pose unique challenges for law enforcement due to the vast and rugged landscapes.
These back-to-back discoveries raise serious concerns about the extent of illegal marijuana cultivation in protected areas and the involvement of local communities in the drug trade. Law enforcement agencies are expected to increase their presence and surveillance in the region to prevent further illegal activities in the future.
(Raidi/Agung)
