Cannabis factory is uncovered

Jan 30 2008 by Katie Norman, South Wales Echo

A MAN was arrested after police uncovered a cannabis factory that could have generated an income of £120,000 a year, according to police.

Officers arrested a 24-year-old man and seized more than 250 mature cannabis plants (pictured), together with a large amount of hydroponics equipment during a raid at a house in Station Road, Bargoed, on Monday night.

The seized drugs had an estimated street value of £30,000 but through cultivation, Gwent Police said the farm could have generated the six-figure sum annually.

A warrant to search the property had been executed after the neighbourhood policing team noticed unusual activity at the house.

Police found the plants in a downstairs room and in three rooms upstairs.

George Fleri, the neighbourhood sergeant for Bargoed, said: “It is a very positive result, as it has prevented these drugs from being sold on the drugs market.”

He urged people to help police sniff out other cannabis farms by looking out for suspicious signs in neighbouring properties, such as large deliveries being received at unusual hours, a distinct smell, or permanently covered windows.

He said: “If they do notice anything unusual, then I would appeal for residents to report it to the police.

“The cultivation of drugs within our communities will certainly not be tolerated and we will continue to act upon any information we receive.”

To pass on information, call Gwent Police on 01633 838111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

A man has been charged with cultivation of cannabis and was due to appear at Caerphilly Magistrates’ Court today.