U.S.: Afghan Opium Growth Nears Record

Afghanistan's heroin-producing poppy crop set another record this season, despite intensified eradication efforts, the American ambassador said Tuesday.

Ambassador William Wood said preliminary data show that Afghan farmers harvested 457,135 acres of opium poppies this year, compared to 407,715 acres last year. The growing industry fuels the Taliban, crime, addiction and government corruption.

Government-led eradication efforts destroyed about 49,420 acres of poppies this year, a “disappointing” outcome, Wood told reporters at his private residence overlooking Kabul.

src: www.cbsnews.com...

5 years and counting, opium production is booming, life is good for drug lords and the CIA. We have some of the most powerful military forces available in an area that apparently continues to flourish in global drug operations. How is this possible? Yes there have been improvements in communities notably schools, roads and other infrastructure but how can something like this be gaining ground. The funds are also used to outfit the enemy here as well. Doesn't it seem logical that if you stem the drug flow you can hinder the enemies funding. Why is there so little being done?

brill

[edit on 20-7-2007 by brill]