Albania is set to enhance its anti-cannabis efforts by deploying advanced drone technology, announced Interior Minister Taulant Bala. Starting next week, Bayraktar drones will conduct systematic surveillance across the country to detect and combat cannabis cultivation and other illegal activities.
This initiative complements an existing aerial monitoring collaboration with Italy’s financial police, Guardia di Finanza. “2024 will be the year we deal a devastating blow to the phenomenon of cannabis cultivation and trade,” Bala declared. The drones will also monitor environmental violations, illegal constructions, and oversee safety during the tourist season.
Last year, Albanian authorities seized four tons of cannabis and eradicated 293,000 plants. With the addition of three Turkish Bayraktar drones acquired in March, the surveillance capabilities are significantly bolstered, enhancing Albania’s ability to address various forms of crime comprehensively.