Police have closed down a huge cannabis factory containing over 3,000 plants which were being grown and cultivated in an abandoned warehouse.
On Monday officers were called to Stockton End in Sandy following a report of suspicious activity taking place at a derelict factory on the industrial estate. On arrival, a man fled the scene in a vehicle but he was arrested after a short pursuit.
An initial search of the warehouse revealed a huge and complex cannabis factory with sophisticated lighting and hydroponics. Officers also discovered a shotgun as well as used and unused cartridges.
Detective Constable Richard Adams who is leading the investigation said: “It is fair to say that cannabis cultivation in Bedfordshire has been seriously disrupted by this latest discovery. It is clear that the factory was a potentially money-spinning operation which would have brought a substantial amount of profit to the people running it.
“This was by no means a small-time operation being run by amateurs, it was complex and appears to have been meticulously planned and established in a location which shouldn’t have raised suspicions. Thankfully, we have been alerted to some strange activity at the location and we have been able to put an end to drug cultivation at this warehouse.
“Bedfordshire Police is committed to the fight against drugs and will do all that we can to prosecute those involved in producing and selling them across the county and I would urge anyone who has any information about this discovery, or any other drug related offences, to come forward."
A 28 year-old man who was arrested in connection with this incident has been released on police bail pending further enquiries
If you have information relating to this incident or any other drug offences in Bedfordshire, contact Bedfordshire Police in confidence, on the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.
