Bolivia acknowledges some illegal coca use
December 28, 2008 - The Associated Press

LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) — President Evo Morales has acknowledged for the first time in his nearly three years in office that a portion of coca produced in Bolivia is used to make cocaine.

Morales says his government also is aware that some farmers in the central coca-producing region of Chapare are violating a law that limits each family to producing 1,962 square yards (1,640 square meters) of coca for medicine and food.

Morales said Saturday that some of the farmers "are betraying us." He made his comments during a meeting with coca-producer union leaders in Chapare. His comments were broadcast on government radio Patria Nueva.

Morales said that if farmers continue to produce more than the maximum amounts allowed, he will send in the army to reinforce the law.