$25 million cannabis operation shut down, Darling Downs

Police have charged four men with drug offences and seized thousands of cannabis plants and a large quantity of hydroponic equipment as part of an ongoing operation targeting the production, distribution and trafficking of cannabis in the Darling Downs region.

Detectives from the Firearms and Cannabis Team (FACT), with the assistance of MOCS Rural and Gatton District Police, executed a search warrant at a rural property in Churchable yesterday, locating more than 10,100 growing and mature cannabis plants, growing in several structures, including hydroponic systems.

The total estimated street value of the drugs seized is $25 million.

The four men, age 48, 42 and two 37, were each charged with one count of production of dangerous drugs excess schedule and one count of possession of property used in the commission of a crime.

Detective Senior Sergeant Tony Parsons, Officer in Charge of FACT said the grow operation is one of the largest the drug squad has ever had to intercept.

“It showcases what lengths organised crime is prepared to go to make a lot of money. Which will often be used to fund further criminal activity.

“As much as these criminal groups have no consideration for the harm they present to the public, the Drug Squad will always have a higher and more determined level of response and is dedicated in crushing criminal activity”.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

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