Three men arrested over alleged cannabis haul of 3000 plants at Virginia
A sea of cannabis plants stretching as far as the eye can see have been found “hiding in plain sight” among market gardens at a northern suburbs compound. Three men have been arrested.
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A mammoth cannabis farm “hiding in plain sight” has been uncovered among market gardens at Virginia, with more than 3000 plants growing at the rural compound.
Three Vietnamese men ran from the Penfield Rd property when police raided the drug set up just after 9am on Saturday.
Detective Chief Inspector Darren Fielke said the size and scale of the haul indicated the operation had “been going on for some time”.
He said the men allegedly nursing the drugs – from seedlings to mature plants – were chased down by police dogs Ben and Zeus and arrested.
“We’re always looking for this type of activity, but it is a significant find in this area. We wouldn’t have had a find of this size for some time,” Det Insp Fielke said.
“You could say they’re hiding in plain sight.
“(There are a) significant number of greenhouses, three or four have been found to contain cannabis.”
Large fans and a small bar fridge was found in one greenhouse, which also contained more than 1000 plants. A significant amount of dried cannabis was also discovered.
Det Insp Fielke said police focused on the property after a tip-off from members of the public.
He said the street value of the drugs was unknown as detectives continued to find more plants, but was adamant the seizure would “make a significant dent in cannabis supply” in South Australia.
Investigators expect to remain at the property for up to three days as they process multiple crime scenes.
Police also searched a house on the property, which had evidence to suggest people were living at the home.
The three men – a 53-year-old, 25-year-old and a 26-year-old – are expected to be charged with cultivating a large commercial quantity of controlled plant and drug trafficking.
They will be refused bail and are expected to appear at Elizabeth Magistrates Court on Monday.
Anyone with further information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report on line at www.crimestopperssa.com.au