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Police bust unsanctioned marijuana market in North Park

Posted at 10:53 PM, Jan 24, 2019
and last updated 2019-01-25 18:50:16-05

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - The San Diego Police Department has shut down an illegal marijuana swap meet they say was operating in North Park.

Officers raided a "Ganja Galaxy" event held at Queen Bee’s Art Center on Ohio Street Tuesday afternoon.

The dispensaries inside were selling marijuana and various weed related products without permits, according to a lieutenant with SDPD.

More than 20 people were detained and at least one arrest was made.

A man identifying himself as the event organizer was put into the back of squad car and driven away from the site.

GanJa Galaxy attendees were surprised by the bust.

“It’s a little upsetting honestly,” said Brandon Turner. "Marijuana is medicine — the dude who runs it I personally know him and he’s a really good dude. There’s no ill will.”

The GanJa Galaxy event has been regularly advertised online and people must have a recreational marijuana card to get in.

“It’s not sketchy at all,” added Turner, who says the event has been going on for years.

Police say they received tips about the event and neighbors have previously complained about it.

More information including arrest details and charges will be announced by SDPD Friday.