The Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce (UCETF) in California has achieved a significant victory against the illicit cannabis market. In a recent sting operation in Los Angeles, authorities seized more than 2.2 million illegal cannabis packages, Governor Gavin Newsom’s office announced on Tuesday.
The extensive operation was led by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) with critical assistance from the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) and other state agencies. The sting targeted 11 storefronts located in the Los Angeles Toy District. These businesses were found to be involved not only in the sale of illicit cannabis but also in manufacturing “bulk packaging used in the illicit cannabis market to deceive customers and evade state safety and quality regulations,” according to the press release issued by the governor’s office.
During the operation, law enforcement agents confiscated a total of 2,279,000 contraband cannabis packages. Additionally, they seized 31 banker boxes and numerous garbage bags filled with cannabis products. The illegal products were often marked with the California symbol, typically reserved for legal cannabis, or were packaged to resemble popular food and candy products, making them particularly appealing to children.
Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the state’s commitment to maintaining a safe and legal cannabis market. “California is committed to supporting our safe and legal cannabis market. We will not tolerate criminal activity that undermines the legal market, especially when it puts children at risk,” Newsom said in a statement. “This successful operation in the Toy District reinforces our commitment and sends a clear warning to criminals choosing to operate outside the safer legal industry.”
DCC Director Nicole Elliott echoed these sentiments, highlighting the dangers of illegal cannabis packaging. “Illegal [cannabis] packaging is dangerous to consumers, especially when it is ripping off well-known brands that are attractive to children, and needs to be removed from the marketplace,” Elliott stated.
The recent operation underscores a broader crackdown on illicit cannabis activities. Earlier this month, the UCETF reported that it has seized over $120 million worth of illegal cannabis products since January. This ongoing enforcement effort aims to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of California’s legal cannabis market.
As California continues to strengthen its enforcement against illegal cannabis activities, the state remains focused on ensuring a regulated market that supports public safety and regulatory compliance.
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