California’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF) seized 105,700 illicit cannabis plants and 22,057 pounds (about 10 tonnes) of processed cannabis worth USD 123.5 million in a week-long operation across Kern, Kings and Tulare counties in May 2025, announced as the task force’s largest operation to date.[1][2] During the week of 5 May, more than 200 officers and staff from 15 state, local and federal partners served 71 search warrants across about 4,600 square miles.[1][2] Officers confiscated nine firearms, detained numerous people and made several arrests, with charges to be filed through local district attorneys.[1][2] At eight locations they found banned or restricted pesticides that threaten native species and the health of anyone consuming the tainted cannabis.[1]
Governor Gavin Newsom said the state would not tolerate growers who undermine the legal industry and harm the environment.[1] The operation adds to USD 534 million seized by the task force in 2024; since 2022 it has served 500 warrants and removed more than 800,000 plants and 220 tons of processed cannabis.[1]
