POT OPERATION BROKEN UP

The recent discovery of a marijuana grow operation in a house on River
Glen Boulevard in Oakville has prompted police to offer some hints on
how people might recognize these operations.

Police seized 167 plants and $1,000 worth of hydroponics equipment in
the basement. Street value of the drug is estimated at $167,000.

It was the 19th indoor marijuana growing operation dismantled in
Halton this year.

Marijuana hydroponics operations require police to engage in detailed
criminal investigations and can pose a danger to neighbouring homes
because they usually illegally tap into hydro sources.

Police say residents may notice some of the common traits in these
grow houses.

But they warn members of the public should not put themselves into any
compromising positions while obtaining information about marijuana
grow operations or any other criminal activity.

Anyone having information on either or suspicions should call police
or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or 905-825-8477.

Things to watch for include:

* The property is poorly maintained. * Occupants of the property are
seldom seen and/or the property looks vacant.

* Suspicious actions of people living in or visiting the
home.

* Unusual smells may sometimes be detected coming from the
home.

* All or most of the windows in the house may be covered.

* Bright lights may occasionally be seen in the home.