The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has intensified its fight against illicit drugs after officers destroyed six hectares of cannabis during a targeted anti-drug operation in the Lubombo region.
The operation, conducted on Saturday, July 26, saw members of the Lubombo Anti-Drug Unit working alongside Simunye Police to locate and destroy cannabis fields at Tabankulu.
The illicit crop was destroyed through aerial spraying as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal cultivation and trafficking networks operating in the area. 
Police said the operation forms part of a broader strategy to curb the production and distribution of cannabis, which authorities believe continues to fuel violent crime across the country.
According to REPS, cannabis remains one of the contributing factors behind the increase in serious offences, including murder and other violent crimes.
The destruction of the plantations is therefore aimed not only at eliminating the illegal crop but also at disrupting criminal activities linked to the drug trade.
The police described the operation as a strong warning to individuals involved in the cultivation and trafficking of cannabis, stressing that law enforcement agencies will continue to target areas known for illegal production.
Although no arrests were made during the operation, police indicated that investigations remain ongoing and that further operations will be conducted to identify and apprehend those responsible for cultivating the destroyed fields.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to combating illicit substances, saying the fight against drugs remains a priority in efforts to reduce crime and enhance public safety.
Police have also encouraged members of the public to report information relating to illegal drug cultivation and trafficking, saying community cooperation remains essential in addressing organised criminal activities.
