'Sophisticated’ grow-op busted near Medicine Hat

MEDICINE HAT — Police have busted two large marijuana grow operations in southern Albert that investigators believe have ties to Asian gangs in Calgary.

Officers arrested and charged eight people after searches were carried out late last month at a site near Medicine Hat, another one about 100 kilometres north of the city and a home in Calgary.

More than 1,900 marijuana plants were seized, along with more than $1.5 million in drug-growing equipment, real estate and cash.

Investigators say the grow operations were sophisticated and well-financed.

The drug bust follows a two-month investigation by the RCMP as well as police in Medicine Hat and Calgary.

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Red Deer Advocate