TNAG-1709-FCO40-2384-Hong-Kong-narcotics-offences-and-drug-trafficking-1988 — Page 23

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The last coca survey (1983 with updates) indicated 15,000 to 17,000 hectares under cultivation. U.S. officials no longer consider this to be valid and have called for a new estimate. Analysis of a new coca survey, based on 1986/1987 data, should be ready for briefing in mid-August. U.S. officials believe one hectare of coca yields about 1.6 kilos of cocaine base per year, compared to a traditional estimate of 2.0 kilos per hectare. Colombian coca is achieving yields lower than previously estimated.

Cannabis cultivation is believed to be between 10,000 and 14,000 hectares annually. One hectare yields about 1.13 metric tons of marijuana per harvest.

Comparative eradication and seizure statistics for the first six months of CY 1986 and CY 1987 follow:

Cocaine HCL (kg)

Coca base (kg)

Coca eradication (hectares)

Cocaine labs (base/HCL)

Cannabis eradication (hectares)

Marijuana seizures (mt)

Ether seizures (thousand of gallons)

1986

1987

1,441

975

341

2,299

532

338

307

966

617

( * ) NOTE: Моге than 3 9 0 I abs have been

southern

operation, which began i n

15.1

destroyed

183 (*)

2,619 915

37.2

during the

continuing.

June and i s

The nationwide drug abuse survey which NAU is funding began during the first half of this year. Data is now being collected in five Colombian cities. Analysis and results are scheduled to be completed by early 1988.

ECUADOR

Summary: The outlook for coca eradication depends on the availability of helicopters. The upcoming arrival of two leased medium-lift helicopters dedicated to the anti-narcotics effort will give the 1987 program a major boost. Obtaining Colombian agreement to use regional

regional air wing helicopters in Ecuador would allow further progress. Expansion of the river interdiction campaign depends on the availability of appropriate boats. New boats funded by UNFDAC have been ordered by the government. In 1988 the government will pay increased attention to the anti-narcotics effort given that earthquake relief activities will be less urgent. End Summary.