CRIMINALS are becoming more brazen with Collie Police seizing 53 cannabis plants at a Forrest street address on Tuesday evening.
Police found the drugs after executing a search warrant at a bookshop in the centre of town, which was scheduled to be opened in September.
Northam man Brett Scott, 45, has been charged with cultivation of a prohibited substance and will face Bunbury court this week.
Collie Police acting senior sergeant Tracey Keown said a tip-off from the general public led to the discovery.
"We found plants of different ages and at different stages of cultivation," she said.
"We don't know how long it's been there.
"It's just so incredible how such a set-up was established right in the middle of town and people didn't seem to notice.
"This area gets a lot of traffic due to the close proximity to the supermarket - so we are amazed it wasn't reported earlier.
"It was so brazen - right under the nose of everybody."
Police are also investigating other properties connected with Mr Scott.
"We encourage the public to continue to let us know when they see something suspicious," Sergeant Keown said.
Police have also recovered thousands of dollars worth of stolen goods after executing three search warrants last week.
Police found methamphetamine, cannabis and $4000 dollars worth of stolen tools and beauty products.
A camera that was found has already been returned to its delighted owner.
Police believe the stolen goods were exchanged for drugs.
Four people have been charged over the crimes.
