Three men have reportedly attempted to flee after police discovered an extensive cannabis cultivation operation in a Sydney warehouse. Authorities uncovered approximately 5000 marijuana plants at an industrial property in Riverwood, a suburb in the city’s south-west.
According to New South Wales Police, officers executed a search warrant at the premises following an ongoing investigation into illicit drug activities. The operation led to the arrest of three individuals who allegedly attempted to escape the scene.
The discovery was made as part of an effort to dismantle large-scale drug production networks in the state. Following a tip-off, police launched an inquiry into the property, culminating in the search warrant that revealed the massive grow house. Officers reportedly found thousands of cannabis plants at various stages of growth inside the building.
Upon arrival, police stated that three men attempted to evade capture, but they were quickly detained. The suspects were taken into custody for questioning. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the individuals or their specific charges, but investigations are ongoing.
Detective Superintendent John Watson from NSW Police confirmed that the scale of the operation points to an organised criminal enterprise. He described the find as “one of the larger drug seizures” in the area in recent months. Authorities estimate the street value of the cannabis plants to be in the millions.
This case follows a series of similar busts across Sydney in recent months, as police intensify efforts to crack down on illegal drug cultivation. NSW Police have been targeting large-scale marijuana operations linked to organised crime groups that use rented warehouses or abandoned properties for cultivation.
Authorities highlighted the sophisticated nature of the cultivation setup, with hydroponic systems and artificial lighting used to accelerate plant growth. Officers dismantled the operation and removed the seized plants as part of the ongoing investigation.
No reports have confirmed links between this seizure and other recent raids, but police remain alert to the possibility of a broader drug syndicate being involved. Investigators are currently analysing evidence collected from the warehouse, including financial records, equipment, and communication devices found on-site.
Local residents in Riverwood expressed shock at the discovery, with some noting that the warehouse appeared to be an ordinary commercial business from the outside. Law enforcement officials have urged members of the public to report any suspicious activity related to vacant industrial properties or unusual movements within commercial areas.
The arrested men are expected to face charges relating to the cultivation and supply of prohibited drugs. Their court appearances are scheduled in the coming days, though specific charges will depend on further investigation and legal proceedings.
Police have reiterated their commitment to dismantling large-scale drug operations, with ongoing surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts across New South Wales. Authorities will continue working to prevent similar illicit enterprises from operating in the region.
Further details regarding this case, including the full extent of the investigation, will be revealed as the legal process unfolds.
References:
Canberra Times: https://www.canberratimes.com.au/video/crime/x9dlrv6/three-men-attempt-to-flee-after-5000-marijuana-plants-discovered-in-sydney/
ABC News: (pending verification)
The Sydney Morning Herald: (pending verification)
NSW Police Media: (official statements pending release)