About 8.35pm on Tuesday 14 April 2026, Kalgoorlie police, assisted by Kalgoorlie detectives, executed a search warrant at a home on Genovese Way, Somerville.[1] Police allege several rooms inside the home had been converted to grow hydroponic cannabis, and that more than 350 cannabis plants and more than half a kilogram of cannabis plant material were located and seized.[1][2]
Western Power attended after officers identified an allegedly unlawful bypass of the electrical supply, and hazards had to be made safe before police could enter and search the property.[1][2] A 53-year-old Somerville man was charged with cultivating a prohibited plant with intent to sell or supply and possession of prohibited drugs with intent to sell or supply (cannabis).[1] He appeared before Kalgoorlie Magistrates Court on 15 April 2026, was granted bail, and is next due to appear on Monday 25 May 2026.[1] ABC identified him as Robert Lee Wills, reported he did not enter pleas, and said WA Police confirmed the investigation remained ongoing when asked about further charges.[2]
Detective Senior Sergeant Jason Skuse, Kalgoorlie detectives officer in charge, attended the scene as police catalogued evidence.[2] Neighbours told ABC a large backyard greenhouse was visible from the street and that about a dozen police and forensic staff worked through much of the following day.[2]
