A Rosebud property is among 14 homes worth about $17.5 million frozen during an investigation into an alleged organised crime syndicate linked to at least 41 cannabis grow houses across Victoria.
Detectives from the Mornington Divisional Response Unit and Criminal Proceeds Squad arrested a 40-year-old Keysborough man during an early-morning raid on Tuesday, 21 July.
Police charged him with two counts of cultivating a commercial quantity of cannabis and committing an indictable offence while on bail.
He appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court that afternoon, did not apply for bail and was remanded to return to court in October.
Police Allege Links to 41 Grow Houses
The Criminal Proceeds Squad began investigating in 2023 after police identified an increase in cannabis grow houses across the Latrobe Valley.
Investigators allege the syndicate operated at least 41 grow houses dating back to 2019.
Police also allege the Keysborough man played a significant role in the operation.
Detectives arrested him after executing a search warrant at a Scotch Avenue property shortly after 5.30am.
Rosebud Property Among Homes Frozen
In August 2025, detectives obtained restraint orders over 14 homes allegedly linked to the syndicate.
A restraint order freezes a property and prevents it from being sold or transferred while authorities pursue confiscation proceedings. It does not mean a court has permanently confiscated the property or proven any allegations.
The properties included five in Morwell, two in Moe, two in Keysborough and one each in Rosebud, Bendigo, McKinnon, Hallam and Newborough.
Detectives allege most of the properties housed cannabis crops over extended periods and generated millions of dollars.
Police have not identified the Rosebud address or confirmed whether cannabis was allegedly grown there.
Victoria Police Target Alleged Enablers
Police said the investigation now includes people suspected of helping the alleged operation, including tradespeople, real estate agents, cleaners and accountants.
Detective Superintendent Geri Porter said police would pursue criminal charges and target assets allegedly linked to organised crime.
“We are determined to create the most hostile environment possible for these organised crime syndicates and do every single thing we can to ensure they don’t benefit from this offending.”
Mornington Divisional Response Unit Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pola said drug trafficking and money laundering were not victimless crimes.
“Someone is profiting off misery here.”
Police urged residents to report suspicious properties where people arrive at unusual hours, vehicles regularly change, shutters remain closed, lights stay on day and night or strong smells come from the property.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential online report.
The charges and police allegations remain before the courts.
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