Authorities in North Macedonia have seized approximately 27 tons of cannabis across multiple locations in what is being described as one of the largest drug enforcement operations in the country’s history. The confiscated narcotics are reportedly connected to five tons of marijuana previously seized in Serbia, discovered on property owned by a member of Serbia’s ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) in Konjuh.
According to journalist Kristina Atovska from Skopje, North Macedonian law enforcement carried out a large-scale operation overnight, targeting cannabis allegedly cultivated for medical purposes. Investigators initially raided facilities at the former “OHIS” industrial complex in Skopje, where warehouses and the headquarters of the company “Alfa Farm” are located.
Authorities suspect that the cannabis seized earlier in Serbia may originate from the same company, raising concerns about possible cross-border trafficking networks operating under the guise of medical marijuana production.
Unofficial reports indicate that approximately nine tons of cannabis were confiscated in Skopje, while an additional 18 tons were seized in the Strumica region. Officials have not yet confirmed whether the Strumica seizure is directly linked to the company operating in Skopje.
Atovska noted that North Macedonian authorities had previously provided limited information following the seizure in Serbia, stating only that they were cooperating with Serbian institutions and international agencies. The latest operation appears to explain the earlier silence, as investigations expanded across multiple sites.
Details regarding arrests remain unclear. Unconfirmed reports suggest at least one individual may have been detained, though authorities have yet to release official statements about suspects or potential criminal charges.
The operation highlights growing regional concerns over the misuse of medical cannabis licensing frameworks for illegal drug trafficking, as well as the importance of cross-border cooperation in combating organized crime in the Western Balkans.
