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June 24, 2026
Local News

$40 million cannabis bust at Ellangowan

By The Echo

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NSW Police say that officers uncovered more than $40 million worth of cannabis at Ellangowan. Photo NSW Police.

NSW Police say that four people have been charged after officers uncovered more than $40 million worth of cannabis inside industrial grow-houses on a rural property at Ellangowan.

Earlier this year, officers attached to Richmond Police District established Strike Force Birnam to investigate the cultivation and supply of cannabis across the state’s north coast.

Their inquiries uncovered a remote property which was being used for the large-scale cultivation of cannabis.

Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives executed a crime scene warrant at a property in Ellangowan – about 20km southeast of Casino – from 6am yesterday (Friday, 4 November).

They were assisted by Tactical Operations Regional Support (TORS), Dog Unit, Police Rescue, and other specialist resources throughout the operation.

The cannabis was grown inside industrial grow-houses on a rural property Photo NSW Police..

Police seized 8,388 cannabis plants

Investigators subsequently located and seized 8,388 cannabis plants, with an estimated potential street value of $40 million.

Six men – aged between 33 and 52 – were arrested during the operation and taken Casino Police Station.

Two of the men have since been released pending further inquiries.

A 33-year-old man has been charged with cultivate prohibited plant more than large commercial quantity and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

A 43-year-old man has been charged with cultivate prohibited plant more than large commercial quantity, participate criminal group contribute criminal activity, and recklessly deal with proceeds of crime.

A 49-year-old man has been charged with knowingly take part-cultivate more than large commercial quantity prohibited plant, and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

A 52-year-old man has been charged with cultivate prohibited plant more than large commercial quantity and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

All four men were refused bail to appear at Lismore Bail Court.

Investigations under Strike Force Birnam are ongoing.

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