400-Plant Cannabis Farm Busted in Jacksdale
Police swooped on a property in Albert Avenue, Jacksdale, on Sunday after officers noticed a strong, suspicious smell. A thermal scan revealed the building was abnormally hot, prompting a forced entry that uncovered a massive cannabis farm.
Illegal Grow Operation and Fire Hazard Exposed
Inside, officers found over 400 cannabis plants spread across several rooms. They also discovered dangerous electrical modifications that posed a significant fire risk. The faulty wiring will now be made safe to prevent any disaster.
The drugs, estimated to be worth around £250,000, will be seized and destroyed, along with all growing equipment to stop future cultivation.
Serious Crime Warning from Police
PC Dan Snowden, of the Ashfield and Kirkby rural crime team, said: “This isn’t just a bit of weed; it is serious criminality that poses a considerable risk to others in the community – not least to the people living next door to this considerable fire hazard.
Cannabis grows of this nature are often linked to violent organised crime gangs from home and abroad – people who can engage in serious violence and even human slavery to protect their bottom line.
This really is a sinister and damaging business so I urge all local residents to tell us if they suspect this kind of thing to be going on. We will investigate and we will take this kind of decisive action when we have the evidence to do so.”
Police Appeal for Information
Officers urge anyone who noticed suspicious activity in the area to come forward. If you have info about this incident, call 101 quoting incident 224 of 16 July 2023.
