Police have charged 18 people after locating cannabis grow houses and seizing drugs and cash as part of an ongoing operation in the South Eastern Region targeting the production and supply of cannabis.
Over the course of a four-day operation commencing October 29, police from State Crime Command’s State Drug Squad executed 15 search warrants across residential premises throughout the Gold Coast and Logan, seizing 145 cannabis plants and 5.5kg of dried cannabis, with an estimated street value of $400,000.
During Operation Romeo Factor, police located and destroyed an extensive quantity of hydroponic equipment being used in the production of cannabis across ten premises, with a total estimated value of $38,500. Equipment from two clandestine drug laboratories was also found.
Police also seized $10,475 in cash and small quantities of MDMA tablets and methylamphetamine.
Detective Acting Superintendent Troy Pukallus of the Drug and Serious Crime Group said the operation was aimed at disrupting criminal networks involved in the supply of dangerous drugs on the Gold Coast.
“These are proactive actions targeting the illicit drug market which poses potential significant harm to the Gold Coast community and its visitors, including the Schoolies festival.” Detective Acting Superintendent Troy Pukallus said.
A total of 18 people were charged with 81 offences including producing and supplying dangerous drugs and possession of proceeds from the supply of dangerous drugs.
They are due to appear in the coming weeks.
Investigations are ongoing.
