Police are once again warning the public to be on the lookout for suspicious activity – as the criminal fraternity set about planting their annual cannabis crops.
It’s the time of year when organised crime groups plant cannabis, and Police say that there are a number of areas within the Waitemata, Auckland City and Counties Manukau areas that are isolated and remote environments which criminals will use to grow their drugs.
Deerstalkers, pig-hunters, trampers, mountain bikers and anyone who works in the farming industry is asked to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour in rural areas.
As well as the social harm caused by drug use, organised crime groups and other who grow cannabis have previously intimidated legitimate users of regional parks, trespassed on private land, destroyed farm crops, stolen farm equipment and damaged locks on gates.
Police are urging the public to report any suspicious activity, which can even be done anonymously through the organisation Crimestoppers (0800 555 111).
“The methods criminals use to grow a cannabis crop are no different to how the public would grow fruit and vegetables in their own gardens. Seedlings are planted in spaces where there is sunlight, plants are regularly watered and fertilized, pests are kept away from the crops by netting and fencing” says Detective Sergeant Callum McNeill, Waitemata Police.
“What makes the growing of cannabis unusual is that criminals have to do this in remote locations. They have to return frequently to these locations to maintain the crop as well as transport all the equipment needed with them. We urge the community to be vigilant” he says.
Signs that indicate that cannabis is being grown are;
- An unusual, distinctive smell coming from a property or area of bush or forest.
- Unknown vehicles using and parking on private forestry or farmland roads.
- Fencing and gates that have been tampered with.
- Persons carrying gardening equipment in the bush
- Discarded gardening packaging in unusual locations
- Unexplained lights in the bush or farmland during the night
“We want to hear about any of this activity. Obviously we have an enforcement role to play in relation to drugs, but we can’t solve the problem alone. We need public help” he says.
Anyone who suspects cannabis is being grown or who witnesses suspicious behaviour is asked to contact their local Police.
Information can also be given anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Audio of Det Sgt McNeill is available. Please call Beth if you would like a copy.
Beth Bates/Waitemata Police
