Have you seen this plant in Canterbury?

The cannabis growing season is well underway. As part of a nationwide Police operation (Operation Jasmine) Canterbury Police are asking the public to be on the lookout for cannabis growing operations, or related suspicious activity, while they’re travelling around the District this summer.

Sergeant Daniel Isherwood says “Cannabis is often grown in areas near walking tracks with a nearby water source so trampers, hunters, fishermen, jet boaters and anyone who works in aviation can help by keeping an eye out for this type of crop. Plants grown outside are likely to be noticeable at this time of the year either due to their bright lime-green colouring or because the growers have fenced their plots to prevent predation.”

Obvious signs to look out for include:

• People repeatedly visiting specific locations at unusual times during the day and night
• People carrying shovels, spades and other similar equipment into the bush
• Vehicles parked in rural areas with difficult access or areas closed to the public
• Unusual sightings of lights/head torches/headlights in rural areas at night
• Distinctive smell coming from rural areas or properties.
• Theft of fencing equipment or farm bikes from rural properties which could be used in accessing plots and cultivation

Sergeant Isherwood recommends anyone who comes across a cannabis plot “to stay clear of the operation but note down the location and report it to Police. We encourage those living and visiting rural areas in our District to be vigilant and report suspicious activity. We understand that due to the risks associated with growing cannabis some people will be reluctant to report this activity to Police directly and encourage the use of Crimestoppers where crime can be reported anonymously.”

"Cannabis destroys lives and relationships and causes significant social harm each year when users commit crimes such as burglary and theft to fund their habits. Police in Canterbury are committed to working with the community to disrupt the supply chain and reduce the demand for cannabis in the District.

It only takes one call to Police or Crimestoppers to prevent criminals selling drugs in your community" said Sergeant Isherwood.

This operation is not just focussed at outdoor cannabis growers. There are many tell-tale signs the public and landlords can look out for when cannabis is being grown inside a building which can include:

• Fence heights being increased
• Curtains and windows kept closed both day and night
• Shed and garage windows blacked out
• Bright lights on at strange times or on constantly
• Constant hum of fans running continually
• People and vehicles visiting throughout the day and night

If you have information about drug cultivation, manufacture or supply in Canterbury, please contact your local Police station or Canterbury District Headquarters on 03 363 7400, option 5.

Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

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