Police have urged Canberrans to keep an eye out for any suspicious signs that could indicate a property had been turned into a grow house.
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ACT Policing said criminals could cultivate cannabis inside a house, shed or backyard. Hydroponic set ups for large crops were often very sophisticated and involved a lot of equipment.
They advised neighbours to keep an eye out for people who arrived at a house at odd hours, such as very early in the morning or late at night.
They could also see tradespeople who arrived at the house with items such as large circuit boards, electrical cables, insulation batts or heavy plastic sheeting.
Residents who neglected their garden, did not collect their mail or never put their garbage bins out might also be a warning sign.
Suspicious equipment could include electrical transformers, lights and shades, large quantities of plastic pots or tubs, irrigation piping and large quantities of fertiliser.
Neighbours could also notice lights that switched on and off even though it appeared no one was at the house, strange interior lighting or the constant sound of fans or water running.
The smell of cannabis was also a giveaway.
Police said neighbours who weren't often home, remained secretive or visited intermittently could raise alarm bells.
They encouraged residents to get to know their neighbours.
Members of the public played a key role in reporting suspicious activity to police, they said.
ACT Policing advised anyone who noticed suspicious activity should take note of time and location, the person's clothing and appearance and the model, make, colour and registration of any vehicles.
Suspicious or illegal activity can be anonymously reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
