Charges laid over multi-million dollar drug bust

FIVE men have been charged over a large cannabis haul, with a street value of $3 million, allegedly seized in two raids on Wednesday.

Cannabis plants allegedly seized at Brookvale on Wednesday

FIVE men have been charged over a large cannabis haul, with a street value of $3 million, allegedly seized in two raids at Brookvale and Cromer on Wednesday.

Police also allegedly seized more than $26,000 in cash in raids on two homes.

Insp Craig Wonders inspects a large cannabis set-up in Brookvale. Picture: Braden Fastier

Two other men have been released pending further inquiries into the multi-million dollar haul.

The four raids on the northern beaches, and in southwest Sydney, were undertaken by officers attached to Strike Force Smith, established by the Northern Beaches local area command, to investigate the cultivation and supply of cannabis in the area.

Police arrest a man connected with a large cannabis set-up in Brookvale. Picture: Braden Fastier

Simultaneous raids on industrial premises in Carter Rd, at Brookvale, and Villiers Place, Cromer, about 8.30am on Wednesday, allegedly uncovered hydroponic cultivation set-ups.

Police allegedly seized 321 cannabis plants at the Brookvale premises, and 244 plants and a large amount of cannabis leaf at the Cromer premises.

In raids on two homes, police allegedly seized about $20,000 in cash at a property in Hurstville, and $6000 at a home in Turrella.

Police arrest a man connected with a large hydroponic cannabis set-up in Brookvale. Picture: Braden Fastier.

After the raids, seven men, aged between 20 and 63, were taken to Manly police station for questioning.

Two were released pending further inquiries, but five were charged.

Anyone with information about the drug trade on the northern beaches is urged to call Dee Why police station on 9971 3399 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.