CYF called in after cannabis raid

HOT HOUSE: Cannabis plants were found in an indoor growing room in central Masterton. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Masterton police have called in Child, Youth and Family after discovering a substantial cannabis-growing venture in a house where children were living.

Police discovered 12 almost mature cannabis plants growing in a locked room fitted with special lighting and temperature monitors inside a central Masterton house that was raided on Friday morning.

Detective Senior Sergeant Barry Bysouth said what was disturbing was the growing room was adjacent to what appeared to be the family lounge.

"This is what we are confronted with when people say cannabis doesn't do any harm.

"We obviously have concerns around the unlawful cultivation of cannabis in any circumstances but, in this particular situation, this was a family home with a number of children and our over-riding concern is that children were exposed to this unlawful drug on a daily basis, as the room is right next to where they were watching TV."

The living conditions the children were exposed to in the house were severe enough for police to ask Child, Youth and Family to come to the house, he said.

There were thought to be five children aged between 7 and 14 living at the house.

Mr Bysouth said for the size and location of the house, it was a substantial bust with each plant worth about $1000 when fully grown.

"We are investigating what appears to be cannabis cultivation for commercial gain."

Two men have been arrested and charged with stealing electricity and cultivating cannabis.

They appeared in Masterton District Court yesterday and were remanded in custody until October 15.

The bust is part of police's annual cannabis recovery operation, dubbed "Operation Dee", which targets rural and residential cultivation.

With the outdoor cannabis growing season about to start, police were asking the public to be on the lookout, Mr Bysouth said.

Mr Bysouth said cannabis could be grown indoors all year round and if people noticed any strange smells coming from nearby houses, they should contact police. Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 088 555 111, or call Masterton police on 06 370 0378.