Two arrested after massive cannabis factory uncovered in Basildon
Police seized over 2,000 cannabis plants with a potential £3 million value.
A major cannabis factory has been discovered in Basildon following a police raid, resulting in two arrests.
Officers from Basildon Neighbourhood Policing Team and the Operational Support Group executed a warrant at an industrial estate in the east of the town after receiving reports of suspicious activity.
Upon entry, they found 2,140 cannabis plants across a dozen rooms and two floors, estimated to have a street value of up to £3 million.
Two men were found inside the premises, with one attempting to hide in a ventilation hatch.
The warehouse posed significant risks, with a hazardous mezzanine floor and exposed electrical cabling used to power heaters and fans.
All seized plants will be destroyed.
PC Louis Rose, who led the operation, stated this was a substantial cultivation managed by an organised criminal gang.
He explained that various measures had been taken to cover up the operation, which was designed for cannabis production on an industrial scale.
The discovery of such a large growth was unexpected, although initial reports suggested criminal activity at the site.
PC Rose highlighted the direct links between drug production and violent crimes, exploitation, and anti-social behavior.
He emphasized that dismantling the gang's operation would disrupt their supply line.