Friday, 30 January 2015 - 1:43pm |
Bay of Plenty

Communities can help disrupt drug activity

2 min read

Communities, particularly in rural areas, are being asked to be extra vigilant as the illegal cannabis growing season is now well underway.

Plants will be at noticeable heights now and the warm dry weather means some effort will be required by offenders to keep crops fed and watered.

There are a number of signs that may indicate illegal growing is occurring and they include:

  • People seen repeatedly going to certain locations at unusual times of the day and night
  • Shovels, spades and other such equipment being carried into the bush
  • Vehicles in rural areas closed to the public or with difficult access
  • Unusual lights in rural areas at night
  • Distinctive smell coming from rural areas or properties
  • Items going missing from rural properties that might be used in accessing plots and cultivation such as farm bikes, generators and fencing equipment.

Plants will often be planted near a water source, so whether you are on the land, the water or even in air, you are asked to keep your eyes peeled and report any suspicious activity.

“Most people in New Zealand do not want drugs in their communities and don’t want their children and loved ones exposed to the misery it causes,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Lindsay Pilbrow. “With the assistance of communities we can continue to disrupt this illegal activity and reduce the social harm that stems from drug dealing and the crimes that are committed to feed drug habits. Anyone reporting drug information can be assured what they tell us will be treated in confidence.”

Not all drug cultivation is in outdoor rural locations. Indoor grows are often disrupted during police operations and search warrants. Indicators of an indoor grow include:

  • Residents increasing fence heights
  • Curtains closed day and night
  • Shed and garage windows being blocked out
  • Bright lights on constantly or at strange times
  • Sounds of fans continually running
  • Vehicles and people visiting hours at all hours of the days

If you have information about drugs cultivation, manufacture or supply ring your local Police Station. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.