Two charged after £700k cannabis factory raid in Sawtry
Officers discovered 717 cannabis plants in an industrial unit following a tip-off, leading to the arrest of two men.
Police discovered a large cannabis factory in Sawtry Business Park on 16 November, after acting on information received. Inside the industrial unit, officers found six rooms filled with 717 cannabis plants, valued at over £700,000, alongside equipment used for cultivation.
Two men, Thieu Ba Nguyen, 30, and Van Tran, 34, both of no fixed address, were arrested at the scene. They have been charged with being concerned in the production of cannabis and appeared in Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on 18 November.
Police have highlighted several signs that could indicate a property is being used as a cannabis factory:
Regular visitors to a property at odd hours, day and night.
Windows that are blacked out or have persistent condensation, even in mild weather.
Bright lights seen throughout the night.
Altered or tampered electricity meters, and newly installed cabling.
A strong, sweet smell and the sound of fans.
An unusual amount of plant pots, chemicals, fertilisers, and compost.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicions about potential cannabis cultivation or drug activity online at www.cambs.police.uk or by calling 101.