Illegal grow-op in Port Colborne

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People in Port Colborne are still left with a lot of unanswered questions after a medical marijuana facility they thought was legal was growing more plants than allowed under Health Canada regulations.

Niagara Regional Police say they found over 3000 marijuana plants.

Victoria Baago is having second thoughts after a medical marijuana facility she lives beside was robbed at gun point.

“It was terrifying. My heart was pounding.”

It’s been only three weeks since she’s moved into her Pinecrest Road home. Baago says she knew her neighbours grew marijuana, but thought the whole process was legal.

Niagara Police say the greenhouse has three licences to produce medical marijuana but found over 3400 plants. Nearly 10 times the amount they’re permitted.

Niagara Regional Police say the marijuana taken from the greenhouse -once processed- is valued at over $1.5 million.

Two years ago the greenhouse, Muileboom Organics, was trying to convert its facility into a commercial medicinal grow operation. It was backed by former Prime Minister John Turner, but outrage from neighbours put an end to the project and he and his business partner pulled out.

While there is a fence in front of the property the back is completely exposed, unlike the security at Flamborough’s Green Relief which has to answer to Health Canada.

Five people were arrested in Monday’s robbery. Five more are being sought.