Police have disturbed a cannabis-growing operation in Tauranga.
Emergency services were called to a fire in the basement of a house just before 5pm yesterday evening (Tuesday 13 September 2016).
About 200 cannabis plants were found at the scene on Hilltop Road, Parkvale.
“This was a sophisticated growing operation,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Turner.
“A man has been charged with the cultivation of cannabis and appeared in the Tauranga District Court this morning.
“An inquiry is under way to establish any criminal liability in relation to the fire and identify anyone else who might be associated with the cannabis operation.
“We believe the cause of the fire was the illegal diversion of power. Diverting power is a dangerous practice, but unfortunately common practice when cultivating cannabis. The practice can cause death by electrocution.
Anyone who knows of people illegally re-routing electricity should alert Police,” says Mr Turner.
ENDS
Police Media Centre.