Sophisticated cannabis growing network busted

Forty-two plants in various stages of growth were seized. Photo / NZ Police

A sophisticated cannabis growing network in Levin supplying the large Auckland market has been busted by police.

After an eight-month probe into an Auckland drug dealer, armed police officers swooped on a rural property in Levin yesterday morning and found a large indoor growing cannabis operation.

Forty-two plants in various stages of growth were seized - 36 were located inside and six were located growing outside. Seven guns were also seized, one of which was a loaded shotgun found in a bedroom.

Police also seized almost $500,000 worth of assets under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009 at the rural property, a boat and trailer, a 4x4 vehicle, and a ride-on lawn mower.

"This operation sends a strong message to those in the criminal fraternity that crime does not pay. You can expect to be caught and where appropriate assets seized for forfeiture proceedings," said Manawatu constable Jim Dunlop, 'Operation Octopus' coordinator.

"We will take swift action against those who spread harm through supplying and selling illicit drugs."

Police believe the cannabis grown at the property was being transported to Auckland for sale there.

A 47-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman have been jointly charged with cultivating cannabis, possession of cannabis for supply, and selling cannabis. Further charges against the two are likely. They will both appear in the Levin District Court on February 20.