Essex Police raid �300,000 cannabis factory - two arrested
A HUGE haul of cannabis plants has been discovered by Essex Police after a daylight raid on a property in Uttlesford on Friday (May 13).
Three tag teams, of at least 20 officers, swooped on an inconspicuous barn just outside Duton Hill on the B184 at around 1pm, following weeks of surveillance originally sparked by a public tip-off.
Lead officer Pc Rebecca Hawkins described the discovery as the “biggest” bust she has ever been involved with and said she was “delighted with the outcome”.
The barn had blacked out windows and a strong smell emanating from within.
Police found over 1,000 plants - in varying stages of maturity - over two floors, along with a full hydroponics set up and living quarters.
If all the plants found were fully grown, the street market could be as much as �300,000. It is thought the factory had been going for at least six months.
The operation was carefully planned with various aspects of the police force working together to plan and execute the warrant under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
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A specially-trained attack dog was on hand should anyone inside the factory decide to run away upon seeing a police presence.
A 41-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man have been arrested on suspicion of drugs offences and are currently being interviewed by police.
Chief Insp Alyson Wilson, Uttlesford District Commander, said: “The message from Essex Police is clear and simple: we will not tolerate the cultivation of cannabis in Essex.”
