Police in the Northern Marianas say drug-related crimes in the territory are down because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Marijuana Photo: AFP
Movement across the border is heavily restricted, a strict curfew is in place and there is a dearth of flights coming into the CNMI meaning illegal drugs are in short supply.
While partially crediting the Covid measures for the drop in criminal activity, police also say the the local Drug Enforcement Taskforce has been proactive in the fight against illegal drugs.
Governor Ralph Torres thanked police for what he called an excellent job in "trying times".
In a related report, the Division of Customs said it seized more marijuana than crystal methamphetamine at the CNMI's ports of entry in fiscal year 2020.
The annual report noted that nearly 1500 grams of marijuana and just over 1000 grams of crystal meth were seized last fiscal year.
Customs also confiscated 23 grams of THC powder and 356 pieces of other controlled substances.