£400k cannabis farm discovered in Crawshawbooth after residents report ‘strong smell’
A cannabis farm worth approximately £400k was discovered in Crawshawbooth after residents reported a “strong smell” emanating from a property.
Officers were called to Stoneholme Industrial Estate following reports of “strong smells” coming from an address on Thursday, January 16.
Police entered the building and discovered around 500 cannabis plants, all of which have been seized.
An average cannabis plant once mature is worth approximately £800 on the streets. The farm is thought to be worth approximately £400,000.
There was also evidence that the electricity had been bypassed. Electricity North West attended to make the area safe.
No arrests were made but police confirmed an investigation was underway.
Sgt Paul Marsden, from Rossendale Police, said: “The cultivation of cannabis is often seen as a minor offence but there are many hidden dangers including risk of fire.
“Tampering with the electricity supply to power a cannabis farm can have harmful consequences for neighbouring properties as well.
“We are determined to tackle cannabis cultivation, as it can cause misery for local communities and often has strong links to organised crime.”
Operation Warrior is Lancashire Constabulary’s response to tackling serious and organised crime in the county, supported by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw.
It aims to target the individuals and gangs involved in crime, as well as associated issues such as violence and intimidation, large scale drug supply, exploitation and fraud.
If you have any concerns about crime in your area, call 101 or report it online at https://doitonline.lancashire.police.uk/.
Independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Always call 999 in an emergency.