Police seize $1.5M in illegal cannabis from Brampton grow operation

Toronto police have dismantled a major illegal cannabis production operation in Brampton, seizing over $1.5 million worth of the illicit drug. The massive grow was discovered on August 4 when Toronto officers executed a search warrant as part of an unrelated investigation on a commercial property on Rutherford Road South in Ontario.

Upon entering the premises, police found a sprawling cannabis cultivation setup, highlighting the scale of the illicit operation. Health Canada subsequently confirmed there were no proper registrations or licenses for the property related to cannabis production.

The next day, investigators from multiple police units conducted another search at the same commercial unit. This sweep yielded an astonishing haul: nearly 4,000 cannabis plants at various growth stages, over 23 kilograms of processed marijuana, and $600 in Canadian cash. Safety concerns were also noted, with issues arising from the electrical infrastructure and overall building safety. The Office of the Fire Marshal and other agencies were dispatched to assess the potential hazards.

Thankfully, it was determined that there was no imminent danger to the public. Two men, aged 38 and 43, were apprehended and charged under the Cannabis Act for possession with intent to distribute and unauthorized cultivation. The two were subsequently released from custody and are set to appear in court on September 3 in Toronto.