A man has been charged with commercial drug supply offences after a hydroponic cannabis set-up was dismantled in the state’s Monaro region yesterday.
Investigations began last month as part of Strike Force Airts, to investigate the alleged commercial-scale cultivation of cannabis in the Googong area.
Following inquiries, officers attached to the Monaro Region Enforcement Squad (RES) – with assistance from Monaro Police District – executed a search warrant at a home on Erskine Loop, Googong, about 4pm yesterday (Tuesday 16 August 2022).
A search of the property uncovered a sophisticated hydroponic grow house, allegedly consisting of eleven grow rooms containing cannabis plants at various stages of growth.
Officers seized more than 300 cannabis plants, as well as dried cannabis, hydroponic equipment, electronic surveillance equipment and more than $20,000 cash believed to be the proceeds of crime. The plants will be destroyed.
A 37-year-old man was arrested after attempting to hide in the roof cavity of the property.
He was taken to Queanbeyan Police Station where he was charged with six offences:
- Cultivate prohibited plant – commercial quantity – serious indictable offence,
- Cultivate prohibited plant – large commercial quantity – serious indictable offence,
- Possess prohibited plant – commercial quantity – serious indictable offence,
- Possess prohibited drug, and,
- Deal with property proceeds of crime (two counts).
He appeared in Cooma Local Court today (Wednesday 17 August 2022) where he was formally refused bail to appear in the same court on Friday (19 August 2022).
Inquiries continue.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
