Six charged following Karaka cannabis bust

Six people have been arrested and charged after Police busted a cannabis growing operation in Karaka yesterday.

At about 7pm Police executed a search warrant at an address in Karaka, which had previously been used for cannabis cultivation.

During the search of the Manuwai Lane property Police uncovered an indoor grow setup with more than 125 cannabis plants, as well as several kilograms of dried cannabis.

The warrant is part of Police’s continued effort to crack down on commercial-scale operations with criminals profiting from the sale of drugs.

“Anytime we can put a grow setup out of action it’s a good result,” Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says.

He says upon arrival seven occupants at the address attempted to flee or hide from Police.

“Four people were found hiding in the roof and were taken into custody without incident.

“A further two people were apprehended by Police dogs and enquiries remain ongoing to locate another person.

“This was a good result and Police will continue to target people producing illegal drugs in our communities.”

Six men, aged between 34-41, have been remanded in custody to reappear in Pukekohe District Court next month facing charges including possession for supply of cannabis and cultivate cannabis.