The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) says they have shut down a multi-million dollar cannabis operation.

Last Friday, the VPD executed search warrants on two cannabis oil labs located in South Vancouver, in an industrial area near Oak Street and Marine Drive.

Investigators believe the warehouses were being used as THC extraction labs.

These types of operations produce high-potency oils and concentrates that are often sold in unlicensed stores and the black market.

As a result, officers seized thousands of pounds of cannabis-derived products, including shake, shatter, oils, balms, and edibles. The lab equipment was also reportedly seized in the process.

VPD also say that the drug bust was made possible due to the search warrants obtained through the new Cannabis Act.

The Cannabis Act prohibits the use of organic solvents when extracting oils from cannabis plants — organic solvents are extremely volatile and can lead to fires or explosions.

“These were very large and sophisticated illegal operations that posed a significant risk to the public,” says Constable Steve Addison, VPD media relations officer. “Although cannabis can now be legally purchased from government regulated and approved retailers, we will not tolerate anyone who tries to cash in by breaking the law and putting the public at risk.”

At this point in time, the investigation remains ongoing. Charges will be recommended at a later date.

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