A police strike force dubbed 'Operation Hemp’ has seized more than $6million worth of cannabis and cash after raiding 19 homes across Adelaide.
An investigation into the alleged organised crime syndicate’s drug trafficking led officers to the suburban properties, with hydroponic set-ups found in 12 homes.
Officers seized 642 plants, 61kg of dried cannabis, $29,000 cash and one vehicle.
Three men have been charged after South Australian police officers raised 19 properties, uncovering 12 with hydroponic cannabis set-ups.
SA police suspect the marijuana was to be sold across the country and have evidence suggesting some money made from trafficking was sent to European countries.
Three men have been charged and will face court on drugs charges as a result.
These men include a 40-year-old from Munno Para West, a 39-year-old from Magil and a 37-year-old from Hope Valley.
Serious and Organised Crime Branch officer in charge Detective Superintendent Stephen Taylor said the seizures and arrests should act as a deterrent to others involved in organised crime rings.
’It is also a timely reminder for those renting properties to ensure that they follow tenancy guidelines and processes,’ he said on Wednesday.
’In many of these cases, landlords have entered into cash arrangements without bonds and have failed to conduct inspections.’
Police officers also seized 61kg of dried cannabis (including the bagged cannabis pictured above), $29,000 cash and one vehicle.
SA police confirmed the 40-year-old man was charged with cultivating a commercial quantity of cannabis and diverity (theft of) electricity.
He was bailed to appear int eh Elizabeth Magistrates Court on August 21.
The 39-year-old man was charged with trafficking a large commercial quantity of cannabis, cultivating a large commercial quantity of cannabis, diverting (theft) electricity and money laundering.
He was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Thursday.
The 37-year-old man was charged with cultivating cannabis and has been bailed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on September 2.
South Australian police seized more than 600 cannabis plants, including those pictured above.