Guatemala security forces eradicate large marijuana plantations in Petén

Guatemalan security forces, including the National Civil Police (PNC) and the Army, conducted major anti-narcotics operations in the Petén region, specifically in Las Cruces. Authorities reported the eradication of large marijuana plantations located in dense vegetation areas, including La Bacadilla and the Ixmucané Cooperative. One report indicates that approximately 51,308 marijuana plants were destroyed, with an estimated value of Q25.65 million.

These operations coincide with increased strategic cooperation between Guatemala and the United States to combat transnational organized crime. Guatemalan Defense Minister Henry Saenz met with Major General Kevin Jarrard, commander of the U.S. Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere (JTF-WHEM), to strengthen regional security. This collaboration, conducted under the Americas Coalition Against Cartels (A3C) initiative, focuses on intelligence sharing, tactical information flow, and enhanced border and maritime control.