Police bust one of the ‘biggest ever’ cannabis farms seizing up to £1.6m in plants

Police have launched an investigation to find out who is behind one of the “biggest” cannabis farms – with an estimated street value of up to more than £1.6million.

Officers from Cleveland Police discovered hundreds of plans at the cannabis farm at property in Dormanstown, Redcar, on August 23, after concerns were raised over the amount of electricity being used.

Following examination by specialist officers, the plants are estimated to be worth a street value of between £544,600 and £1,633,800.

Inspector Neil Deluce, from Redcar and Cleveland’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said that it is “one of the biggest cannabis farms” that the force have uncovered and seized in Redcar.

Appealing for information, Insp Neil Deluce said: “This is one of the biggest cannabis farms we have uncovered and seized in Redcar.

“Often people don’t realise that cannabis farms can involve the exploitation of vulnerable people who are trafficked into the country by organised crime networks, to work in the property illegally and in terrible conditions.

“They can also be extremely hazardous due to the electricity that is used to make them grow.

“This can lead to fires being started that could spread to neighbouring properties.

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“I therefore want to take this opportunity to encourage members of the public to keep spotting the signs of a cannabis grow and to get in touch if you have suspicions.”

Enquiries are ongoing to identify who is involved in the cannabis farm.

Anyone with information that could assist with the officer’s investigation is asked to get in touch on 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.