Nearly 100 Cannabis Plants Seized at Former Pub in Uckfield
Police raided the old Brickmakers Arms in Ridgewood, Uckfield, uncovering 99 cannabis plants in the early stages of growth. The East Sussex Tactical Enforcement Unit (TEU) swooped in on Tuesday, April 25th, after local tip-offs about suspicious goings-on.
Repeat Offenders? Site Linked to Previous Cannabis Factory
This isn’t the first brush with cannabis for the former pub. In May 2021, the same location was busted for running a cannabis factory. That operation was shut down — but locals say shady activity resumed, prompting the latest police action.
Police Crack Down Early on Criminal Grow Operation
Superintendent Till Sanderson welcomed the early intervention, saying:
“The offenders invested significant time, money, and effort to set up this illegal grow, but they’ve lost it all now.”
He warned about the dangers:
“Cannabis is a banned drug that fuels crime. Its cultivation and distribution often tie in with violence, exploitation, and addiction, harming the local community.”
The Hunt Continues to Root Out Drug Crime
Superintendent Sanderson added that the police remain relentless in pursuing offenders, working with partners to tackle the causes behind such illegal activities and protect the vulnerable. The message is clear: the crackdown on drug crime shows no signs of slowing.