Insidious "Mac"

Since early June, a special program "Mak" (Poppy) has been underway in the Postavy district, which will last until mid-September. The main goal of the program is to prevent the cultivation and distribution of narcotic raw materials and to destroy illegal plantings of drug-containing crops, which in Belarus are the widely growing poppy and hemp.

There are 11 gardening associations registered in our district, 7 of which are active. Many residents of the district center also have dachas and plots of land. It is necessary to remind amateur gardeners once again that there is liability for cultivating poppies and hemp on household plots. It does not matter whether these plants grow on the landowner's plot for personal use or simply for beauty. For illegal sowing or cultivation without the intent to sell or produce narcotic drugs, one will be held accountable under Article 16.1 of the Code of the Republic of Belarus on Administrative Offenses. Violation of this article entails a fine of up to twenty basic units. If drug-containing plants are grown for the purpose of sale or production of narcotic drugs, then liability arises under Article 329 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Belarus. This unlawful act is punishable by imprisonment for up to three years, and the same actions committed repeatedly or by a group of persons may be punishable by imprisonment for a term of three to seven years. In cases where this act is committed by an organized group, this article provides for punishment in the form of imprisonment for a term of five to fifteen years with confiscation of property.

I hope that the citizens and residents of our district will not stand aside from the problem of illegal cultivation of drug-containing plants and will assist police officers in carrying out the "Mak" program. Report all known facts of the growth of drug-containing plants and the involvement of persons in their illegal cultivation to the Postavy District Department of Internal Affairs by phone: 102 or 4-10-02, 510-29-45 (MTS). Confidentiality is guaranteed.

Acting Deputy Head of the Postavy District Department of Internal Affairs
for IRiKO
P.M. Svirbutovich