Since riots and looting began in Oakland, cannabis dispensaries have become a significant target along with at least 200 other businesses robbed between May 29 to June 3. 

In the latest event to hit the headlines, two armed men exited a sedan and opened fire on security guards, with the security guards returning fire at the men. This incident took place outside of a dispensary located on the 500 blocks of Julie Ann Way, near I-880 northwest of the Oakland Coliseum. 

Around 10:36 pm, the police received reports of a shooting leaving two people shot. One female dispensary employee was struck by gunfire and died. A male employee was also shot but sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to police. 

The Oakland Citizens for Equity and Prosperity (OCEP), a trade association that represents cannabis businesses in Oakland, has demanded more police protection for these all-cash businesses.  The association feels the Oakland Police department should create a section for crimes against cannabis businesses to be tracked and the information be shared among the industry to better track, prepare, and prevent further incidents where lives and product are lost. 

OCEP chair James Anthony says, "We just need a comprehensive, coordinated strategy on cannabis business crime."

For the latest in cannabis news and trends, learn more about SwissX bringing cannabis bank to California.

Source: KPIX CBS SF Bay Area

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