Suspected cannabis factory found in West Wellow
Hampshire Police have arrested three men
Last updated 28th Sep 2022
A suspected cannabis factory has been uncovered by police in West Wellow, with three men arrested.
Police went to an address in Gazing Lane at around 4.15pm yesterday (Tuesday 27th September), after getting a public tip off.
Officers found eight large bags containing cannabis and equipment associated with the production of drugs.
Three arrests were made - a 21 year old man from Romsey; and two men, aged 32 and 43 of no fixed abode.
They all remain in custody at this time, and are being questioned on suspicion of being concerned in the production of Class B drugs.
Detective Constable Bethan Hastelow from Hampshire Police said:
“We know some people think it’s just a bit of cannabis but the production of drugs is linked to hidden harm and large scale operations like this are often run by organised crime gangs.
"Those gangs are likely to engage in serious violence involving weapons, such as firearms. They may also take advantage of vulnerable people, exploiting them or making them work in servitude.
"It is also linked to anti-social behaviour, like drug-related activity in your neighbourhood, which can cause misery to local communities.
"That’s why we want to hear from people who suspect there is cannabis cultivation and drugs activity going on in their neighbourhood. Every call helps us build a better intelligence picture and allows us to target our resources and protect communities from harm.
"We also urge landlords to regularly check their properties. We often see dangerous alterations to the structure and electrics of homes that are being used to grow cannabis. This can lead to a significant financial cost to the landlord."
To make a report to Hampshire Police about suspected drug activity, you can call 101, or visit their website.
You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.