Montreal

Marijuana grow-op raids in southern Quebec yield more than 4,200 plants

Nine people allegedly involved in illegal marijuana grow-ops were arrested in the Laurentians and Lanaudière region on Wednesday.

Alleged drug ring boss may have Hells Angels connection

Stock image of marijuana plants. Nearly 70 police officers carried out 11 raids in southern Quebec on Wednesday morning, seizing more than 4,200 marijuana plants. (CP)

Nine people allegedly involved in illegal marijuana grow-ops were arrested in the Laurentians and Lanaudière region on Wednesday.

The alleged leader of the drug ring — a 42-year-old man from Saint-Jérôme, Que. — is thought to be connected to the Hells Angels biker gang, according to police.

Sgt. Gino Paré of the Laurentians-Lanaudière mixed regional police force said nearly 70 officers carried out 11 raids in homes, cars and at one warehouse. The raids were carried out in Saint-Jérôme, Mirabel, Saint-Lin–Laurentides, Milles-Îles and the Gore township.

Investigators are still counting the number of marijuana plants seized. The running total as of 11:30 a.m. ET was 4,200.

Paré said officers also seized grow-op equipment and vehicles in the drug bust operation.