Closure of a residence due to the discovery of a marijuana grow operation

The Wassenaar Police Basic Team recently discovered a large-scale cannabis grow operation in a residence on Zanderijlaan. Drug-related crime and properties used for drug trafficking undermine safety in our neighborhoods. For this reason, the mayor has decided to close this residence for three months to protect safety in the neighborhood. Neighbors have been informed via a letter to residents.

Current Situation

The police received anonymous tips about this address through “Report a Crime Anonymously” and entered the residence on Saturday, July 25. In the basement, officers discovered a professionally equipped grow operation with two grow rooms and 526 cannabis plants equipped with artificial lighting controlled by timers, a central irrigation system, ventilation, and various fertilizers and pesticides. Both the water and electricity connections had been tampered with to allow for greater consumption of water and electricity than is possible under normal use.

Measures Taken

The grow operation was dismantled by the police on the day it was discovered, in collaboration with the utility companies Liander and Dunea. Both companies are seeking reimbursement from the suspects for the illegally consumed electricity and for the damages incurred. A criminal investigation into those involved is currently underway by the police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office. 

To protect public order and the quality of life in the neighborhood, the mayor closed the residence for three months on August 26. This puts an end to criminal activity at the residence and prevents it from happening again. The landlord has terminated the lease with the tenant. 

We need your help

Criminals are increasingly exploiting our society in hidden ways to carry out illegal activities, such as this marijuana grow operation. We call this “subversive crime.” The municipality and the police are cracking down hard on this type of crime, but we can’t see everything. As a local resident, you’re often the first to notice something. For example, you can recognize a drug house by: 

  • Suspicious activity at unusual times or by unknown individuals;
  • A significant amount of transportation of necessary materials, such as growing media, potting soil, lighting fixtures, ventilation systems, and/or electrical connections;
  • The humming sound of exhaust systems;
  • No visible signs of habitation, or only at certain times; 
  • Excessive security measures around the house, such as numerous cameras;
  • Covered or fogged-up windows
  • A strong smell of marijuana coming from a house. 

Report Your Suspicion

Do you notice one or more of these signs? If so, please don't hesitate to report it. Your report could make all the difference. You can report it via:

Together, we'll keep Wassenaar safe.