Grimsby raids recover hundreds of cannabis plants
Humberside Police say nearly 300 plants were seized
Nearly 350 cannabis plants have been seized by Humberside Police after operations in Grimsby this week.
On Monday (11th May) four men and a woman were arrested after raids in Gilbey Road where they seized 70 plants, other class B drugs, cash and weapons.
Around 280 plants were found at a disused Chinese restaurant on Cleethorpes Road on Wednesday.
Two people have been charged with production of drugs, possession of drugs with intent to supply and theft a third's charged with possession of drugs and dishonest use of electricity.
All three have been remanded in custody.
Humberside Police's DI Tom Kelly said, "My mission is to help keep the communities of North and North East Lincolnshire safe and protect some of the most vulnerable in our communities – and targeting large scale cannabis grows such as the ones we have uncovered this week is a vital part of that.
"Although dealing with the crime and antisocial behaviour that is often associated with drug use remains a priority for us, there are a number of serious issues associated with these kind of grows that go beyond this.
"In many cases the power comes from illegally tampering with electricity supplies, increasing the risk of fires and putting those living and working in neighbouring properties at risk.
"It’s also common for organised crime groups to exploit vulnerable people who they have trafficked into the country or forced into Modern Day Slavery to manage these grows, with no regard for their wellbeing or safety.
"In these cases many growers are forced to live in squalid conditions, with little food or access to basic amenities.
"This isn’t something we are prepared to tolerate in our force area and we will continue to proactively target these drug production operations.
"I am really pleased with the progress we have made this week. However, if we are to continue to do so, we need your help."
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