Industrial-Scale Operation Dismantled
West Midlands Police have successfully intercepted a significant cannabis production operation after being alerted to a power failure in an industrial unit on Lichfield Road, Aston. The discovery, which took place on July 29, revealed a sophisticated setup spanning 25 separate rooms used for growing, drying, and storing the illicit crop.
Officers from the force’s specialist Cannabis Disposal Team estimated the street value of the seized plants to be approximately £5 million.
Fire Risk and Illegal Power Diversion
Beyond the scale of the cultivation, authorities highlighted the severe danger posed by the site. The operators had illegally diverted electricity to power high-intensity lighting, fans, and filtration systems. Sergeant Harj Cheema of the Cannabis Disposal Team noted that the setup created a "significant risk of fire" for neighbouring properties and businesses in the area.
Ongoing Investigation
Following the raid, two men aged 20 and 43 were arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis. Both individuals have since been bailed while investigations continue.
West Midlands Police continue to urge the public to report suspicious activity, which can be done by calling 101. The force maintains that intelligence-led operations are vital in identifying and dismantling such large-scale drug production sites.
Source: Yahoo News UK
