A police service dog led RCMP to a body part sticking out of a shallow grave at a suspected marijuana grow-operation in Maple Ridge, B.C., on Thursday.

Police believe a body was buried in the grave, but have not yet confirmed the deceased's identity or sex.

Mounties originally arrived at the home located at 28035 112th Avenue with a search warrant granted under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

They also discovered approximately 1,000 marijuana plants and grow equipment inside the home, Ridge Meadows RCMP told ctvbc.ca.

A 55-year-old man who was found at the property has been charged with drug related offences.

He is scheduled to appear in court on June 28.