Submitted. Last night members of the APD Drug Enforcement Unit and Emergency Response Team attended a residence in North West Abbotsford. A warrant had been prepared and APD officers contacted Health Canada on two occasions to determine whether a permit/license was in place for the location or person attached to it. At those times, no such permit/license was confirmed by Health Canada. As a result, the warrant was executed and a marihuana grow operation and male were located on the property.
A total of 295 marihuana plants were found on site. Through discussions with the man and Health Canada it was determined that a recent permit/license had been granted for the production of 35 plants. The APD seized 260 plants which represented the excess to the authorized amount.
Yesterday, Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service and APD attended a dangerous fire connected to a Health Canada sanctioned marihuana grow operation. Therefore, twice in a single day Abbotsford Emergency Services were deployed to deal with issues that appear to fall ultimately under the broader responsibilities of Health Canada and the proper regulation and inspection of licensed marihuana grow operations.
ARCHIVED 13/02/03