UPDATE: IT started as a frightening early morning house blaze but what confronted firefighters in Yangebup on Friday morning could have been even more dangerous.
Even before the flames were extinguished firefighters realised electricity to the on-fire property had been tampered with. Upon closer inspection once the fire was out, police discovered a hydroponic set-up had been operating in at least six rooms of the Dugong View house.
They also found cannabis plants inside the remains of the property, which received extensive damage from the fire worth about $250,000.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWOrganised Crime Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Matthews said the power modifications could have put further people at risk.
“In addition to the illicit drugs being produced, the illegal modification to electricity supply systems creates a dangerous environment for neighbours, particularly when their power supplies have been interfered with,” he said.
He urged people with information about any property being used to cultivate cannabis to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Earlier today, while the fire was still burning, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) issued a general hazmat warning for the area due to the amount of smoke in the area.
The fire at the property near Dugong View and Mandu Way was first reported just after 6am and 12 firefighters from three stations attended to bring it under control.