As cannabis growing season gets underway, police are asking the public to keep an eye out for anything suspicious.
Senior Constable Dave Kirk, spokesperson for the Central District’s annual anti-cannabis cultivation operation, says the majority of New Zealanders “do not want drugs on their doorstep”.
He says police have seen “clear evidence” where information from members of the public lead to major drug seizures, and the community has an important part to play in getting rid of drugs.
Plants grown outside will now be around knee height and quite noticeable, Mr Kirk says. People taking part in outdoor recreation, as well as those working in the rural and aviation industries, can all be eyes and ears for police.
Police are asking people to keep an eye out for people seen repeatedly going to certain locations, people seen at odd times, spades and similar equipment being carried into the bush and a distinctive smell coming from rural areas or properties.
"It could be drugs, it could be innocent, it could be other type offending such as rustling,” Mr Kirk says.
“Just report the activity and the police will do the rest.”
Members of the community who may know of a cannabis grow but are hesitant to speak to police directly can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
3 News