Opium probe after poppy plants seized in raid

Eighty poppy plants seized in early morning raids across Victoria may have been intended for opium manufacturing.

80 poppy plants were seized in raids across Melbourne. Picture: Dannika Bonser.

Eighty poppy plants seized in a series of raids by anti-gangs detectives are suspected of being intended for opium manufacturing.

The plants and six guns were confiscated as Echo taskforce officers in a sweeping operation early yesterday morning.

Poppy seizures by police are believed to be very rare in Victoria.

Investigators executed seven search warrants at Brunswick, Heidelberg West, Preston, Oakleigh and Melbourne West and Tolmie, in northeastern Victoria.

Two people were arrested and the guns, drugs and cash seized.

Cocaine, amphetamine and cannabis were also allegedly found by detectives.

A Brunswick man, 33, was arrested and is expected to be charged with drug offences and dealing with the proceeds of crime.

A 63-year-old man from Tolmie is expected to be charged with drug and firearm offences.