Rocks thrown at cops after drug seizure at remote community

A cannabis seizure in a remote community has led to a large group of residents gathering at the airstrip with some allegedly assaulting cops

Police searched an aircraft after it landed on Groote Eylandt and allegedly found three ounces of cannabis

A cannabis seizure in a remote community has led to a large group of residents gathering at the airstrip with some allegedly assaulting the officers conducting the search.

Police on Wednesday searched an aircraft after it landed on Groote Eylandt and allegedly found about three ounces of cannabis.

Five men who were on the plane have been handed drug infringements in relation to the alleged find.

As police searched the plane and luggage about 60 people gathered with some allegedly throwing rocks at the officers.

One officer required treatment at the local clinic for minor injuries.

Commander Janelle Tonkin said the alleged assaults on the officers were completely unacceptable and investigations were underway to identify the perpetrators.

“The fact that this incident was over such a small amount of cannabis is outrageous,” she said.

“The trafficking of illicit substances into vulnerable communities causes significant and long lasting harm, there is no excuse for it and you will be prosecuted. ”