FOUR men aged between 20 and 55 were arrested last week in Coleraine after a successful police raid uncovered more than a dozen illegal plants grown across several properties.

Senior Sergeant, Shaun McCulloch said although the operation was confined to the town resulting from local contact with police, it was still large enough to require assistance from several neighbouring police.

“Based on information received from the community on Friday, the 22nd of March, members from the Coleraine, Casterton, Cavendish, Hamilton uniform assisted by the Hamilton CIU, Portland CIU and Hamilton Highway patrol, executed four search warrants across addresses in the Coleraine township where cannabis plants were seized from backyards and in sheds varying and sizes from a few centimetres to almost two metres tall,” he said.

“Subsequently, there were four males, between the ages of 20 and 55, arrested and they will face court at a later date relating to drug charges of cultivate and possess.”

Sen Sgt McCulloch said the police were “absolutely” happy with the success of the operation and said it could not happen without the help of locals.

“We urge the community to continue - if there’s anything they wish to report to us, either come and see us at the station or if they wish to remain anonymous to contact Crimestoppers,” he said.

Crimestoppers also has an online report form at crimestoppersvic.com.au