UPDATE: Lots of noise as RCMP raid licensed Vernon grow-ops

VERNON – A loud noise that may have sounded like gunshots early this morning was actually the RCMP busting into a pair of licensed marijuana grow-ops in Vernon.

Cpl. Dan Moskaluk confirms police executed search warrants at two locations in Vernon today, July 20, including a property on Scott Road near the airport and a commercial building in the 2400 block of 14 Avenue.

The banging sound people heard likely came from the use of police shotguns used to breach the secured doors, Moskaluk says.

Police allege that although the grow-ops were licensed, they were being operated for the purposes of trafficking. The operators are also suspected of having links to organized crime, Moskaluk says.

Two people were arrested in connection with the grow-op at the commercial building on 14 Avenue, a 25-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man.

At the Scott Road location, investigators arrested a 44-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman.

Evidence was seized at both locations and the investigation remains ongoing.

All suspects remain in custody pending further investigative work today.

B.C. Hydro crews were at the scene Wednesday morning cutting power to the Scott Road residence. 

— This story was updated at 11:19 a.m. July 20, 2016 to change the main photo and add details from a RCMP media release. 

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