Police seized 1,790 cannabis plants with an estimated street value of $3.5 million during a five-day operation around Nimbin that began on 2 February.[1] Officers searched areas in and around Nimbin, Lillian Rock, The Channon, Lismore, Blue Knob, Tabulam, Drake, Duck Creek, Pretty Gully, Tooloom, Yabra and Urbenville.[1]
Seven people were arrested and will face court on charges of cultivating a prohibited drug.[1] The local Nimbin Good Times reported helicopter raids in the first two days on Moondani, Nmbngi, Lilyfield and Billen Cliffs and the Border Ranges, with a helicopter seen flying past carrying a bundle underneath.[2]
During the operation a police helicopter landed on an oval opposite Barkers Vale Public School after the principal invited the crew down when the low-flying aircraft distracted students.[1] A parent complained that children were terrified by armed officers and a truckload of marijuana, while police said seized plants were visible but not actively shown to the students, who were allowed to sit in the aircraft.[1] Police said the cannabis eradication program would continue in the coming weeks.[1]
