Beware – Is there a cannabis factory in your area?

Wednesday January 6, 2010

Warwickshire Police would like to urge members of the public who think that a cannabis factory has been set up in their community to contact them.

This follows two incidents last month in Rugby where, in total, over 300 cannabis plants were discovered.

Police Officers from the Warwickshire Police serious organised crime team executed a warrant at an address in Grosvenor Road, Rugby shortly after 09.00hrs.

The rented property had been turned into a "cannabis factory" with damage caused to the interior.

250 cannabis plants were found growing at the premises and removed.

Officers were alerted to suspicious activity at a house in Finmere, Rugby and shortly before 11.30hrs executed a warrant at the address.

They recovered 96 cannabis plants and ten bags of what is believed to be dried cannabis and associated equipment.

Police would like anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the vicinity of either of these properties or has information that would help with their inquiries to call 01926 415000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

The following questions may assist the public in identifying a cannabis factory:

- Are the windows of the property permanently covered from the inside?

- Do visits to the property occur at unusual times of the day or night?

- Do people live in the premises or only visit?

- Is there a vent protruding through the roof or a rear window?

- Is there a pungent smell coming from the premises?

- Is there a lot of noise coming from the equipment, such as cooling fans?

- Have a large number of pots and lights been moved into the premises at the same time?

- If in a terraced house, do shared walls appear wet to the touch?

- Are powerful lights being left on overnight?

- Has there been an unexpected rise in your electricity bill?

Police Inspector Paul Judson said: “Many crimes can be connected with drug use and by tackling the issue directly we can have a big impact on related crimes.

“There are all sorts of hidden costs of a set ups of this nature. Aside from the costs of damage to the property that can run into several thousand pounds, there is the risk it poses to the community. The risk of fire from poor electricity set-ups is particularly dangerous in terraced houses. We would urge landlords to make the necessary checks on tenants when letting a property.

“Communities need to remain alert. Anyone who suspects drugs may be being cultivated in a property near them should contact Warwickshire Police on 01926 415000 or can provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. “

Members of the public can also contact their local Safer Neighbourhoods Team. Contact details can be found at www.safer-neighbourhoods.co.uk by visiting their local police station.

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