Balaclava-clad crooks’ cannabis raid sparks high-speed chase and house fire in Ashfield
Suspects Flee in Vauxhall, Driver Ditches Car After Police Chase
At 2.50am on December 22, officers were scrambled to Dalestorth Street, Sutton in Ashfield, after reports surfaced of suspects in balaclavas running from a house and jumping into a Vauxhall. Police soon spotted the vehicle nearby but the driver slammed the accelerator, refusing to stop.
A nail-biting pursuit ended when the car was abandoned. A 32-year-old man was caught after a foot chase and is now in custody. He’s being grilled over dangerous driving, failing to stop, and possession and production of class B drugs.
Meanwhile, cops are hunting a second suspect who fled the scene.
Cannabis Grow Discovered, Fire Breaks Out at Targeted Property
As the chase unfolded, another team raided the Sutton house. Inside, officers uncovered a sprawling cannabis grow spanning multiple rooms. As they climbed the stairs, smoke and the smell of burning hit them.
They quickly retreated and called the fire brigade. Fire crews arrived just in time to put out a small blaze in a bedroom, sparked by an overturned heat lamp used in the grow operation.
Detective Chief Insp. Warns of Fire Risks, Vows Full Investigation
“By responding swiftly, we averted a potentially serious fire that could have devastated neighbouring homes,” said Detective Chief Inspector Nick Hall of Nottinghamshire Police.
“Cannabis grows carry major fire risks, which is why we take no chances with this illegal activity. We believe burglars targeted the property to steal the plants.”
“Our officers acted swiftly to track down and detain a suspect, but enquiries are just beginning. We will leave no stone unturned to catch everyone involved.”
