RCMP LAUNCH AGGRESSIVE GROW OP STRATEGY

The RCMP's war on drugs has received a new strategy, which targets
large-scale marijuana grow operations.

On Sept. 21 the RCMP, along with the federal government and business
and community partners, launched the national strategy, called the
Marijuana Grow Initiative (MGI).

"Marijuana grow operations pose a serious threat to Canadians, the
safety of our communities and the law enforcement officers fighting
against these illegal operations," said Shelly Glover, St. Boniface MP
on behalf of public safety minister Vic Toews, in a release. "The
Government of Canada is taking action to combat illicit marijuana
cultivation in Canada, as well as the organized crime elements behind
it."

The MGI, co-working with the national anti-drug strategy, was
developed with help from experts in the subject matter from across the
country. It represents the RCMP's renewed commitment to fight
marijuana production controlled by organized crime groups.

Through three components -- awareness, deterrence and enforcement --
the MGI outlines the way in which the RCMP will work with partners and
community members. The initiative helps inform the Canadian public
about the consequences, inherent hazards and destructive impacts these
activities have.

Included in the initiative is the launch of a new page on the police
service's website that will have a database of residences where a
clandestine marijuana lab or major grow operation dismantled by the
RCMP under the authority of a search warrant. Police said the site
will be consistently updated with new properties and provide guidance
and resources for landlords and buyers alike concerning the damages
these operations have on a property and its occupants.

"Grow operations harm communities," said Mike Cabana, Assistant RCMP
Commissioner. "Wherever they exist there's the potential for an
increase in criminal activity and a greater chance of fire, explosions
and violence. This initiative is part of the RCMP's renewed commitment
and priority to combat marijuana production controlled by organized
crime groups."

This new initiative has also brought the Insurance Bureau of Canada
and Canadian Real Estate Association on board, who also issued
statements in support of this initiative.

The new information pages can be found by going to the RCMP website at
www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca .

If you have information about a marijuana grow operation in your
neighbourhood you can anonymously supply information by calling Crime
Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).