Two people arrested following fire at Sunbury Cannabis Factory
It happened in Spelthorne Grove on Friday afternoon.
Last updated 1st May 2021
Police arrested two people at the scene of the fire on suspicion of production of cannabis.
Surrey Fire and Rescue were called at around 16:45 yesterday afternoon (30/4) to a house fire in Spelthorne Grove, Sunbury.
As they tackled the blaze they became aware of a large cannabis farm within the loft space, and contacted police.
One of the people arrested was taken to hospital for treatment for minor burns.
It's believed that the fire was caused by an electrical fault from the equipment required to grow the plants.
Inspector David Richardson said:
"Thankfully the individuals in this property escaped the fire, and we don't believe the neighbouring properties have been damaged. Cases like this prove how dangerous cannabis farms can be. They require huge amounts of electricity, and the individuals responsible often bypass the electricity meter and fuse boxes leading to unsafe wiring and the risk of fire.
I would urge any one who is suspicious that a property is being used to cultivate cannabis to get in touch with police."
Signs that a property may be being used as a cannabis factory include:
A distinctive strong and sickly sweet smell
Equipment to grow cannabis being taken into a house. For example, lighting and ventilation equipment.
Sacks of vegetation waste being removed from a house.
Constantly covered or blocked-off windows. Cannabis factories often have constantly pulled curtains, black-out blinds or foil coverings.
Unsociable coming and going at all hours, or neighbours you never see.
Strong and constant lighting day and night.
High levels of heat and condensation. Cannabis factories often give off heat and the windows stay misted up.
Constant buzz of ventilation. Listen out for a whirring sound as the growers try to create an ideal climate for the plants to grow.
Anyone with any concerns that a property may be being used to cultivate drugs should contact Surrey Police.