URGENT UPDATE: A major drug bust in Melbourne has led to the seizure of a sophisticated cannabis crop valued at $15 million. Authorities executed multiple search warrants on Tuesday, targeting a residence in Keysborough and a sprawling eight-hectare property in Devon Meadows.
Police arrived to find eight suspects fleeing the scene. All were apprehended, with five men aged between 26 and 49 facing serious charges, including cultivating a large commercial quantity of cannabis. They appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, where they were remanded for a future court date.
“This investigation highlights the sophisticated measures alleged offenders use to conceal illegal drug activity,” stated Sergeant Josh Gordon. The police operation, which lasted two days, uncovered approximately 4,500 cannabis plants of varying maturity, as well as a firearm, quantities of amphetamines, cocaine, ammunition, and cash.
The sophisticated setup, housed in gardening igloos, has been dismantled, effectively preventing millions of dollars’ worth of drugs from reaching the streets. The plants will undergo forensic examination by a botanist before being destroyed.
Three men, aged 32, 37, and 41, were released on intent to summons for their involvement in the cultivation. Two others, both aged 33, were questioned and released pending further inquiries.
Authorities are bracing for additional charges as the investigation continues. This significant seizure underscores the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Melbourne and highlights the challenges law enforcement faces with increasingly sophisticated operations.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
