What began as a police investigation into the wellbeing of domestic animals in Metro Vancouver transformed into a shut-down of an illegal cannabis operation.

A member of the public had contacted the Delta Police Department (DPD) with concerns about the welfare of dogs at a residence located in the 4800 block of 28^th Avenue in Ladner.

When officers used a search warrant for the property on August 11, they discovered a large-scale cannabis grow-op.

Police seized about $200,000 worth of dried cannabis and 7,400 cannabis plants (with an estimated worth of over $2 million, based on the approximate yield per plant), as well as about $275,000 worth of equipment.

In addition, officers took two individuals into custody.

“The 7,400 plants that were seized were in various stages of growth,” DPD Insp. Heath Newton stated in a news release. “Officers secured about 100 pounds of dried marijuana that was being packaged for further distribution.”

Police expect to forward charges under the Cannabis Act and the investigation remains ongoing.