Drugs worth over £3m seized during week-long clampdown across South Yorkshire
Over 3,000 cannabis plants were discovered across the region
Police have seized £3m worth of drugs across South Yorkshire, as part of a week-long clampdown on the trade across the region.
Officers took part in Operation Mille, a nationwide operation involving coordinated raids against suspected organised crime groups between February 17 and 21.
Across South Yorkshire officers executed 17 warrants, seizing a total of 3,281 plants with an estimated value of £3.2m.
A total of 13 people were arrested during the raids, with three since charged.
24 year old Sadik Sulaand 26 year old Renato Vrapi, both of no fixed address, are accused of acquiring criminal property and production of a Class B drug.
Dung Tran Phu, 35, of Bartholomew Street in Barnsley, is charged with producing a controlled drug.
Detective Chief Inspector Samuel Blakemore, of South Yorkshire Police, said:
“We know that cannabis cultivations are often linked to organised criminality and exploitation of vulnerable people. It is important that people are aware of the connection between drugs and violent crime.
“Part of the purpose of this week of action has also been to gain valuable intelligence about those facilitating these criminal enterprises.
“We will continue to work with our communities to tackle this problem. I would urge the public to report any concerns to us. Remember to look out for the signs that a property is potentially being used for illegal activity.
"With your help we can develop a greater intelligence picture and executed more warrants across South Yorkshire.”