Officers from Griffith Local Area Command and the State Crime Command’s Drug Squad were assisted by the Air Wing, Dog Squad and Radio Electronics Unit in the operation which was formed to target the cultivation and sale of cannabis.

Over the past three days, the Cannabis Eradication Program concentrated efforts on Griffith, Rankin Springs, Tabbita, Darlington Point and the surrounding National and State Forests.

They unearthed more than 2000 cannabis plants growing in a combination of indoor and outdoor hydroponic set-ups. The haul has an estimated potential street value of $4 million.

Police also uncovered more than 31 kilograms of cannabis leaf, worth approximately $270,000, $20,000 in cash, several firearms and hydroponics equipment.

Six people were arrested and charged.

A 31-year-old Griffith man has been charged with cultivating large commercial quantity of cannabis and is to appear before Griffith Local Court today.

A 40-year-old Yoogali man charged with cultivate indictable quantity of cannabis and related drug charges.

A 47-year-old Hanwood man charged with cultivate indictable quantity of cannabis.

A 60-year-old man and a 59-year-old woman from Tabbitta have been charged with cultivate, supply and possess prohibited drug and deal in proceeds of crime.

A 38-year-old Tabbitta man has been charged with cultivate prohibited drug.

All have been granted bail to appear before Griffith Local Court on Wednesday 28 April.

Investigations are continuing in relation to the seizures and further charges are anticipated.

Crime Manager Detective Inspector Paul Smith from Griffith Local Area Command expressed his thanks to the local community for their help.

“The public’s tips and leads have proved vital in making these arrests and seizures occur.

“I strongly urge anyone with information concerning drugs or other criminal activity to contact their local police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” he said.