On Wednesday and Thursday, March 10 and 11, police targeted Willaston, Gawler West, Lewiston, Kudla and Mallala.

The raids were part of Operation Yield, an on-going Barossa Police initiative, conducted to target domestic cannabis production.

Six people were reported for various drug related offences.

Detective Sergeant Simon Carpenter, the Officer in Charge of the Barossa Criminal Investigation Section, said the success of the operation was largely due to information received from the public.

“Apart from the risks of hefty penalties and the possibility of having their homes, vehicles and other valuable assets confiscated, those who grow cannabis also risk their own and their family’s safety,” Detective Carpenter said.

“I’ve seen a number of incidents where people growing cannabis have had violent criminals force their way into their home and they and their family have been physically assaulted and terrorised, just for a few cannabis plants.”

There have also been many house fires caused by unsafe ‘backyard’ electrical and irrigation systems.

“Most of the time the insurance won’t cover you when the fire is caused as a result of an electrical fault in a hydro system,” Detective Carpenter said.

This operation will continue and police plan to repeat the raids frequently, as information comes in about people growing cannabis.

Police urge anyone with information regarding illegal drug activity to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.sa.crimestoppers.com.au where information can be provided anonymously.