A MAJOR four day police operation has led to 18 arrests and the confiscation of $400,000 worth of cannabis plants and dried cannabis in Logan and the Gold Coast.
Police executed 15 search warrants and seized 145 cannabis plants and 5.5kg of dried cannabis over four days as part of Operation Romeo Factor, which started on October 29.
Police from the State Crime Command's State Drug Squad destroyed a significant amount of hydroponic equipment used to produce cannabis on 10 properties with an estimated street value of $38,500.
Equipment from two clandestine drug labs were also found.
Police seized $10,475 in cash and small amounts of MDMA tablets and methylamphetamine.
Detective Acting Superintendent from the Drug and Serious Crime Group, Troy Pukallus, said the operation was set up to disrupt the supply of dangerous drugs on the Gold Coast.
"These are proactive actions targeting the illicit drug market which poses potential significant harm to the Gold Coast community and its visitors, including the Schoolies festival." Detective Acting Superintendent Pukallus said.
Police charged 18 people with 81 offences including producing and supplying dangerous drugs and possession of proceeds from the supply of dangerous drugs.
They are due to appear in court over coming weeks.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
If you have information which can assist police contact Policelink 131 444 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.