Cannabis fields in Bekaa destroyed for second day

Campaigns to encourage farmers switch to other crops such as sunflowers, saffron and tobacco have been unsuccessful
The Daily Star (Lebanon)
Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Authorities continued efforts to eradicate cannabis fields in the Bekaa, east Lebanon, as normal activity in the region remained subdued due to reports of prowling gunmen. Two bulldozers were used in the operation in addition to 17 tractors after 15 tractors were sabotaged by gunmen a day earlier. The operation is proceeding with caution, especially following reports of armed men in the vicinity. (See also: Farmers, government battle over hashish in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley | Lebanon: Hashish growers and the Government face off)