Police uncover huge £2m cannabis factory in Stourport

Police were called to Sandy Lane Business and Leisure Park yesterday by a member of the public who thought they saw people stealing fuel, but when officers arrived they discovered at least 2,000 cannabis plants being grown in a unit. Police said 14 people have been arrested in connection with the find.

Officers found a network of hydroponic equipment, including heating and ventilation fans, and plants at various stages of growth and cultivation at the site in Barracks Road, off Sandy Lane.

Detective Inspector Carl Moore, of West Mercia Police said: "This was a massive cannabis factory, one of the biggest we have ever seen.

"It was discovered purely by chance, thanks to the vigilance of a member of the public, who reported what he thought was a fuel theft.

"Credit also needs to go to first police officers on the scene, who upon discovering there was no evidence of a fuel theft, looked around and came across the cannabis factory.

"The plants will need to be tested, but we believe this seizure has prevented a large quantity of cannabis, possibly worth several million pounds, ending up on the streets."

Nine men were arrested in the Sandy Lane area, followed by a further four in Vauxhall Astra travelling along the Hagley Road West, in Quinton. A further person was arrested yesterday afternoon and the group continue to help officers with their enquires today.

Most of those arrested, whose ages range from late teens to mid 30s, have addresses in the Birmingham area.

They were arrested on suspicious of various drugs-related offences, including production of cannabis, being concerned in the production and supply of cannabis, and conspiracy to cultivate cannabis. They remain in custody at Kidderminster, Redditch and Worcester police stations.

Det Insp Carl Moore added: "Drugs are a priority for West Mercia Police and we will take positive action against anyone involved in their production, use and supply."