Keep an eye out in your neighbourhood for this plant

After a warm winter and sunny days ahead many people will be taking advantage of the good weather, including those who may be taking advantage for illicit reasons, and Central District Police are asking people to keep an eye out for suspicious activity in their communities.

Central District's spokesperson for the annual operation against the illegal cultivation of cannabis, Senior Constable Dave Kirk says: "At this time of year cannabis growing season is usually in full swing and with a particularly warm winter, and summer nearly upon us, plants being grown outdoors will be generally in the region of waist height by now and noticeable."

"Police need residents and visitors to rural areas of the District to be extra vigilant.

“Information and support from the public is invaluable and helps Police dismantle organised crime networks and bring to justice those who profit from manufacturing and selling illicit drugs.”

Police encourage the public to keep their eyes peeled and report suspicious behaviour.

Trampers, hunters, and those who work in rural areas and in aviation can be of great help at this time of year by keeping an eye out in their surroundings.

“Those who manufacture and sell illicit drugs in communities can expect to get caught and be held accountable for their negligent and harmful actions.

“Any information that people have about suspicious activity in their area is vital and I encourage them not to discount what they may have seen. Contact Police and we will take appropriate action,” said Senior Constable Kirk.

Police ask the public to report any suspicious activity including:

• People seen repeatedly going to certain locations
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• People seen at odd times
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• People somewhere they are not supposed to be
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• Shovels, spades and other such equipment being carried into the bush
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• Vehicles in rural areas closed to the public or with difficult access
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• Unusual lights in rural areas at night
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• Distinctive smell coming from rural areas or properties
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• Items going missing from rural properties that might be used in accessing plots and cultivation such as farm bikes and fencing equipment
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Even when cannabis is being grown inside buildings there are tell-tale signs for the public and landlords to look out for:

• Residents increasing fence heights
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• Curtains closed day and night
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• Shed and garage windows being blocked out
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• Bright lights on constantly or at strange times
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• Sounds of fans continually running
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• Vehicles and people visiting hours at all hours of the days
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If anyone has any information about drug cultivation, manufacture or supply rings please contact your local Police Station. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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