Two Canadian citizens, a man surnamed Philbrick and his wife, a woman surnamed Baterman, were taken to the cells of the Public Ministry, on suspicion of growing marijuana that was found in the Sardinal District in Guanacaste Province.

According to the Ministry of Public Security, the couple have lived in Costa Rica for several years and have their resident card, known as DIMEX.

They were taken to the cells of the Public Ministry in Guanacaste where they were interrogated by the Judicial Investigation Organization agents. Then they must await a judge’s orders regarding pretrial measures against them as a suspect of owning a hydroponic marijuana lab and drug trafficking.

The case began when, after carrying out investigative work, the Drug Control Police officers managed to find the marijuana crop located on Canadians 12,000 square meters property, which also includes an area used as animal shelter.

Once on the property, authorities found a large marijuana crop. Police seized marijuana plants and marijuana packages, marijuana seeds, cash, one 38-caliber handgun, a linear-rifle and equipment used for plant maintenance.

The total amount of drugs and money seized has not yet been determined by authorities.

Agents from the Drug Control Police and the Special Support Unit of the Ministry of Public Security participated in the anti-drug operation.

A similar case happened in February when a U.S. citizen surnamed Lawrence, was detained on suspicion of running a hydroponic marijuana laboratory that was found in Escazú Canton in San José.

Last year medicinal and therapeutic cannabis and hemp for food and industrial use were legalized. But, the self-cultivation and self-consumption of the cannabis plant are still illegal in Costa Rica.

Recently, the Ministry of Agriculture authorized the first company to grow and process hemp. The firm is located in Guanacaste Province and seeks to grow about 150 hectares of hemp.

Police encourage people to report any suspected marijuana farms by calling the confidential tip line at 800-8000-645 in English or Spanish.

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