California authorities recently seized more than $23 million worth of illegal cannabis in East Oakland. This operation was conducted by the California Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce (UCEFT), as confirmed by Governor Gavin Newsom’s office.
The seizure was part of a broader initiative to ensure consumer safety and support the state’s legal cannabis market. Governor Newsom stated that the operations in East Oakland demonstrate California’s commitment to protecting consumers and supporting legal cannabis growers while holding illegal operations accountable.
During the operation, UCEFT confiscated over 21,000 illegal pot plants valued at approximately $17.8 million. Additionally, more than $10,000 in cash and around 3,000 pounds of illicit cannabis flower worth over $5 million were also seized.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) led these enforcement actions, with support from the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), and the Oakland Police Department.
Governor Newsom established UCEFT in 2022. Since its formation, the taskforce has successfully seized and destroyed over 162 tons of illegal cannabis, with an estimated value of $536 million, through more than 350 operations. UCEFT has eradicated 526,037 plants, seized 167 firearms, and made 59 arrests in its ongoing efforts.
