Avon & Somerset Police Campaign Against Cannabis Growers

Avon and Somerset Police has begun its latest campaign against cannabis by seizing nearly a million pounds worth of plants in just one week.

The latest round of the operation is running across the force area to target and disrupt the organised cultivation of cannabis.

Officers have so far executed 11 warrants and have seized 900 plants with an estimated street value of £857,500.00

15 individuals have been arrested on suspicion of possession and supply offences. Police have also seized cash and amphetamines.

Drugs Strategy Manager Paul Bunt said: "This is a great start to our latest campaign. We will be carrying out many more warrants over the coming months to clamp down on cannabis cultivation in Avon and Somerset.

"Operation Viscount should send out a clear message that illegal drugs of any kind will not be tolerated and we will continue to bring offenders to justice.

"The cultivation of cannabis has become a highly profitable illegal business. It also brings with it many potential harms to our communities.

"I would urge anyone with any information about cannabis use or production in their area to get in touch with us on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

The following are some of the tell tale signs of properties being used for growing cannabis. They include:

• Windows permanently covered from the inside

• Visits to the premises at unusual times of the day or night

• People visiting just to "maintain" the house

• Daily or weekly calls at the house by people who stay for a short time

• Black bin bags or laundry bags being taken away

• Compost bags or gardening equipment left outside, usually at the rear of the premises

• Vents protruding through the roof or a rear window

• Strange, pungent smells from the premises

• Unusual noises from equipment such as cooling fans

Never approach a house you are concerned could be a cannabis factory. Please call your local officer or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org