Police uncovered a large cannabis crop growing hydroponically in an underground water tank at Hillier today.

Gawler Police, with the assistance of detectives from Barossa CIB, searched the Hillier property this morning.  

A disused underground water tank was revealed to be housing a large hydroponic cannabis crop.

A 54-year-old man from the property was arrested and charged with cultivating a commercial quantity of cannabis and possessing prescribed equipment.

He was bailed to appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on June 19.

Today’s arrest follows further searches and reports this week in the area.

“None of the men are known to each other and there are no connections between the properties,” Inspector Cameron Devey, Acting Officer in Charge, Barossa Local Service Area said.

“The illicit drugs were located in the course of our ‘normal’ policing initiatives.

“These seizures are a significant step towards ensuring the safety of our local community by stopping illicit drugs from circulating.

“The trafficking of illicit drugs is a blight on society with the potential impacts proven to be devastating to those involved, their friends and their families. However it could be argued prohibition adds to societies problems.

“We will continue to do everything we can to stop those who engage in drug related activities.”

He encouraged anyone with information on the manufacture, sale or possession of illicit drugs to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.

A 33-year-old Nuriootpa man was arrested on Tuesday and charged with trafficking in a controlled drug.  

He was bailed to appear in the Tanunda Magistrates Court on May 23.

Police searched an Angaston property on Thursday and located three cannabis plants growing in the backyard and approximately 580 grams of dried cannabis.  

A 35-year-old Angaston man was reported for trafficking a controlled drug.

This morning, police searched a property at Two Wells and located equipment suspected of being used to cultivate cannabis.  

A 36-year-old Two Wells man was reported for possess prescribed equipment.

The reported men will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.