Fire unearths cannabis cultivation

By Casey Neill

A fire in a Noble Park house uncovered a hydroponic cannabis set-up.
Divisional Response Unit Senior Constable Blake Gilbert said the CFA received reports that a rear bedroom was on fire in a Verbena Crescent home about 4.30pm on Monday 19 September.
“Upon extinguishing that, the CFA members observed what they believed were cannabis plants growing in pots,” he said.
Police attended and confirmed that the six plants in question were cannabis, seized them and searched the home.
Sen Const Gilbert said the occupant then returned home unaware of the fire, caused by an electrical overheating problem.
“It was a crime scene that he’s walked into,” he said.
Police charged the 41-year-old with cultivating cannabis. He was bailed to reappear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 2 November.