GROW-OP BUSTED

The Saanich Police Department said a marijuana grow-op bust they performed
March 7 followed regular protocol - even in light of the recent tragedy
that saw an Alberta man take the life of four RCMP officers investigating a
suspected grow-op site.

Saanich police Const. John Price said officers carried out the warrant
Monday using standard risk-assessment analysis.

Officers with a search warrant went into a house in the 400 block of
Holland Avenue, located in the Strawberry Vale area of Saanich. The
three-bedroom house had been converted into a four-room grow-op with 12 lights.

Police believe up to 300 plants were growing inside the house at one time,
but were only able to seize about five per cent, as "the growers were
possibly tipped off to the bust," said Price.

Price also said it was deemed a very "sophisticated" grow-op, with $25,000
to $35,000 dollars worth of equipment being used.

There were air cooled lights and an air filtration system, with each room
containing its own carbon dioxide and sulfur supply.

According to the neighbours, two tenants had been living in the residence
for about four years. Price said police are seeking charges against the
tenants for cultivating marijuana and possession for the purpose of
trafficking.

"We will continue to encourage our officers to pursue all leads concerning
cultivating and or drug trafficking," added Price. "We will not ease the
pressure on growers or users, if they bring it into our neighbourhood."