Warning over cannabis farms
Police are warning of the dangers associated with growing cannabis after cannabis-growing paraphernalia at an address almost caused a fire.
Police are warning of the dangers associated with growing cannabis after cannabis-growing paraphernalia at an address almost caused a fire.
Officers attended an address on Acton Street in Middlesbrough on Tuesday, June 30, where a cannabis farm of 269 plants was found, with a street value over ÂŁ100,000.
A 26-year-old man was charged with production of cannabis and appeared at court yesterday afternoon, Wednesday, July 1.
Inside the address a transformer used in the growing of cannabis had begun to get so hot that it was starting to burn through wood within the property.
Detective Inspector Christian Ellis, from the Community Drug Enforcement Team, said:
“The experience of my officers within the Community Drug Enforcement Team is that the electrical set up of many of these commercial farms is very dangerous.
It can often take many hours for trained electricians to make the premises safe before we can begin our initial investigations. The electrical equipment can become very hot which could lead to the risk of a fire, which could spread to adjoining properties and potentially put people’s lives at risk.”
Dave Turton, Head of Community Safety with Cleveland Fire Brigade, said:
“Electrical-related fires account for a significant number of house fires. We strongly advise that people do not tamper with the main electrical supply for any reason and any electrical work in properties should always be carried out by a certified electrician.”
Anyone with information about drugs activity in their area is asked to contact police on 101 or the Community Drugs Enforcement Team on the confidential number 0800 092 9702.