Eight Chinese Nationals Indicted for Massive Marijuana Grow Operation in Southeast Georgia
A federal grand jury has indicted eight Chinese nationals for their involvement in a massive indoor marijuana growing operation in Southeast Georgia. The operation, which was discovered in February, involved two large-scale facilities on tracts of land in Pierce and Brantley counties.
According to the Department of Justice, the defendants are charged with conspiracy to possess and distribute more than 1,000 marijuana plants, as well as possession with intent to distribute. Additionally, four of the defendants are also charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The investigation, which was conducted by the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, resulted in the seizure of over 11,000 marijuana plants worth millions of dollars. The operation was disguised as a fish farm, but authorities discovered a sophisticated indoor growing facility.
“This investigation alleges the discovery of a massive clandestine operation illegally growing marijuana on two locations hidden in plain sight,” said U.S. Attorney Jill E. Steinberg. “Our exceptional law enforcement partners identified these illicit operations and are working to hold these defendants accountable.”
The defendants, who are all Chinese nationals, have made their first appearances in federal court. Two of the defendants, Hiawen Huang and Yim Hung Yuen, are believed to have left the United States. The other defendants are being held pending trial.
The indictment marks one of the largest drug busts in state history, and authorities are working to disrupt and dismantle the operation. The case is ongoing, and further charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
