Recently, the joint drug crime investigation unit announced the arrest of four individuals, including a 43-year-old man identified as A, for violating drug laws related to the cultivation and distribution of cannabis. From January 2024 to December 2025, A and his associates set up specialized cannabis cultivation facilities, including greenhouses, lighting equipment, and air purifiers at a commercial site in Osan. They sold the marijuana produced there through secure messengers like Telegram to evade law enforcement. Additionally, in a separate case, a 41-year-old man named B and his accomplices operated similar facilities in a villa in Hwaseong from August 2025 to January 2026, also selling cannabis through Telegram.

The individuals used encrypted communication methods and cryptocurrencies to conduct their illegal activities, significantly complicating law enforcement's ability to track their operations. Notably, A had a previous drug offense conviction but was found to be continuing his marijuana cultivation and usage while evading law enforcement. The joint drug crime investigation unit expressed concern over the alarming rise in drug crimes and emphasized their commitment to restoring public safety by intensifying the crackdown on illegal drug activities in densely populated residential areas.

The unit consists of officials from customs, police, and prosecution services and is tasked with tackling the escalating drug issues that pose a substantial threat to communities. They noted that the presence of such cultivation facilities not only endangers community safety but also fosters a broader culture of drug use, which could have severe societal repercussions.