5 Vietnamese nationals charged: Seize estimated $26M cannabis crop in VIC
Major Drug Squad (MDS) detectives have seized one of Victoria’s largest cannabis hauls in recent times —which uncovered more than 6,000 plants in regional Victoria.
Officers from the MDS, along with Morwell Divisional Response Unit and local uniform officers, executed a search warrant at the Koonwarra Inverloch Road rural property in Leongatha South about 7.45am on Tuesday, 22 October.
4 men and 1 woman were arrested at the address and a sophisticated hydroponic set-up was discovered in several commercial-sized hot houses.
Plants located ranged from seedlings through to mature-sized plants weighing in at 1.7 tonnes.
It’s estimated the overall crop of 6,525 plants would have a street value of more than $26 million.
The 5 Vietnamese nationals arrested —aged 54, 51, 47, 35 and 25 —were all charged with cultivate and trafficking a commercial quantity of cannabis.
They were remanded to appear in Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on 7 March 2025.
Quotes attributable to Major Drug Squad Detective Acting Inspector Leemara Fairgrieve:
“Combatting the impact of drugs on our community is a major focus of Victoria Police”, she said.
“This is the one of the most significant and complex cannabis hydroponic set-ups that we have seen in recent times.
“Drugs are a major driver of crime —this investigation shows our ongoing commitment against the illicit substances trade within Victoria and criminals who are attempting to benefit from this type of community harm.
“We urge members of the community to report any suspicion of drug-related activity to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au”. (V/P)
