Homes evacuated after severe blaze sparked by cannabis factory

Flames burst through the roof of the terrace house in Bridge Street South, Smethwick forcing next door neighbours to be evacuated.

West Midlands Fire Service said the house had been "completely destroyed" as the investigation continued today.

Officials also hit out at those behind the drugs den for putting neighbours and firefighters at risk by the blaze.

The fire started at about 2.30am this morning – it was confirmed no-one was injured.

Thirty firefighters had worked to stop the flames spreading to the neighbouring homes by daybreak.

Firefighters used hydraulic platform to reach the blaze from above.

The road outside the house was blocked off by the fire crews during the operation as bystanders watched on nearby.

At first light the severity of the blaze became clear as exposed roof beams could be seen where flames burst through.

It came after a suspected modern slavery victim died after being locked inside a cannabis factory when it caught fire in a Brierley Hill factory unit.

A West Midlands Fire Service spokesman said: "We've responded to a severe fire in a Smethwick house being used to grow cannabis - putting neighbours and our crews in danger.

"Properties either side had to be evacuated."

WATCH: Fire service showcase severity of blaze

A spokesman for West Midlands Police added: "We were called by fire colleagues after a cannabis factory was discovered at a property that was on fire in Bridge Street South, Smethwick shortly before 2.30am today.

"Fortunately no one was injured and we do not believe the fire was started suspiciously.

"Anyone with information can contact us via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight, call 101 anytime or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Please quote log number 314 of June 7."

Incident Commander Neil Griffiths, speaking on Sunday morning, said: "At the height of the fire we had approximately 30 firefighters dealing with this and the first fire engine arrived within five minutes and that helped us stop any fire spreading to any adjoining properties.

"I do want to thank all the fire service crews who have worked really hard, making sure this fire was dealt with as effectively and safely as possible.

"I would also like to thank West Midlands Ambulance Service and West Midlands Police for their contribution to a safe conclusion."

He added that crews were likely to be at the scene for several hours on Sunday to make sure the blaze did not re-ignite and to carry out an investigation.

Officers from Oldbury Police were also at the scene saying that they were investigating the illegal cannabis set up.

They urged people to call police on 101 if you suspect a cannabis set up in your street.

The Express & Star contacted West Midlands Police for further comment including information on the location.