Criminal gangs are beginning to move out of the city into the regions. Drug crop houses are one avenue they use to gain their illicit funds.
Low rents and isolation from are one reason crime gangs are targeting the GV to continue plying their trade.
Shepparton police and Crime Stoppers are urging the community to play a role in helping police identify suspicious activity where a house might be used to grow cannabis.
Stella Smith, CEO of Crime Stoppers said, “The visible signs that Victorians should be looking for are nearby houses that have overgrown grass or weeds in the garden, junk mail overflowing from the mailbox and windows covered with metal shutters or large boar noticeable signs that people can be looking out for in their neighborhood and community.”
Crime data from the Shepparton Police Service Area identified 200 offenders charged with cannabis offences between May 2019 and May 2020.
The Victoria Police Clandestine Laboratory Squad have even found labs stored and hidden in sheds and shipping containers on rural properties. With some shipping containers buried underground, Victoria Police warn the public that unexplained excavation on large properties could be another sign of drug manufacturing.
Stella Smith reminds Victorians that reporting to is a safe way to disrupt the manufacture of illegal substances. “We understand why individuals may feel unsafe or choose to turn a blind eye when reporting drug manufacturing in their local area. Crime Stoppers is a confidential crime reporting service that does not require any personal details and protects the identity of the caller or individual reporting online.” she said.
People can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or on their website at http://crimestoppersvic.com.au
