Albanian authorities have discovered and destroyed 7,446 cannabis plants cultivated in an open field in the village of Reç i Ri, in the northern Shkodër region, police said.

The large-scale plantation was identified during field inspections carried out by law enforcement units. Following rapid verification, police teams moved to eradicate the plants and launched efforts to identify those responsible for the illegal cultivation.

In response to the case, the Director General of the State Police ordered the immediate suspension of three police officers over alleged failures in duty performance connected to the area where the plants were found.

Additionally, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against two other officers involved in territorial control operations, although they have not been suspended.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine how the illegal cultivation was able to develop undetected and to identify the individuals behind the operation.

The case adds to ongoing concerns in Albania over illegal cannabis cultivation in remote and rural areas, where enforcement and monitoring challenges persist.

Inspector Samet Kadroji, local duty officer responsible for the area

Deputy Commissioner Zef Marku, Head of the Velipojë Police Station

Chief Commissioner Bekim Lika, Head of the Shkodër Police Commissariat