Nottinghamshire Police Smash £500k Cannabis Farm on National TV
From a massive half-a-million-pound cannabis farm to a sneaky bedroom grow, Nottinghamshire’s drug-busting heroes are putting their skills on full display tonight.
Gigantic Warehouse Grow Busted in Lenton
Police Interceptors kicks off with the stunning find of around 1,100 cannabis plants at a derelict warehouse on Derby Road, Lenton. Valued at a staggering £500,000, the giant grow was uncovered after officers responded to a burglary report.
When tactical support crews arrived at 1.50pm on 7 November 2020, they were hit by the unmistakable stench of cannabis. A sweep of the disused building revealed eight rooms packed with plants sprawling over two floors. The entire operation was swiftly raided, dismantled, and destroyed.
Sophisticated growing equipment was seized and police investigations are ongoing.
Bedroom Cannabis Grow Shakes Bilborough Estate
The show then heads to Bilborough where an elderly man’s home in Darnhall Crescent was raided after intelligence tipped off officers about a hidden grow.
Sure enough, one bedroom had been converted into a cannabis farm. Police also found weed stashed in a bin, drugs wrapped for deals, white powder, mobile phones, and SIM cards. Two men connected to the scene were questioned—one cautioned for cannabis possession, the other released without charge.
PC James Patterson, a 20-year veteran of Nottinghamshire Police’s tactical support, led the early-morning raid at 7am on 5 October. He said:
“It’s exciting to be part of raids like this because you never know what you’re going to come across. These are often large operations run by organised criminals, so we always keep on our toes.”
Secret Rooms, Stench Give Away Criminal Grows
Patterson revealed some of the cleverest grows he’s come across, including one hidden beneath a house behind a secret bookcase entrance, and another concealed behind a panel at the back of a garage.
“The downfall is always the smell,” he explained. “We never leave empty-handed. Drug production and distribution are serious crimes linked to violence and modern slavery.”
He added a stern warning:
“Organised criminals are making money from exploiting vulnerable people and terrorising communities. Our message is clear—if you’re involved in supply, we’re watching you. It could be you next.”
More Action on Police Interceptors Tonight
And the drama doesn’t stop there. Tonight’s show also features a tense showdown between a fugitive and police dog Quantum, plus a reckless drink-driver trying to outrun the cops.
Don’t miss it! Tune in at 8pm on Channel 5 for all the high-stakes action.