Drugs factory shut down by police

The police bust, involving 27 officers, took place at the Four Winds Industrial Estate in Haynes after a number of individuals were seen to be acting suspiciously in the area.

Officers arrived at the scene on Sunday November 27, and discovered a warehouse that had been converted into a drugs factory with sophisticated lighting and hydroponics.

Only a small section of the warehouse had been used for cannabis cultivation, but officers believe that the property could have been a ‘tester’ area which, if successful, could have seen the entire location turned into a cannabis factory.

Sergeant Andy Rivers said: “We believe that we have discovered and disrupted a potentially money-spinning cannabis factory which would have brought a substantial amount of profit to the people running it.

“We are not dealing with small-time crooks here. This was a complex operation which appears to have been meticulously planned and established in a location which shouldn’t have raised suspicions.

“Thankfully, an eagle-eyed member of the public made us aware of some strange activity and we have been able to put an end to drug cultivation at this warehouse.

“Bedfordshire Police is committed to the fight against drugs and will do all that we can to prosecute those involved in producing and selling them across the county and I would urge anyone who has any information about this discovery, or any other drug related offences, to come forward.”

Two people were arrested in connection with the incident and have been released on police bail will enquiries continue.

If you have information relating to this incident or any other drug offences in Bedfordshire, contact Beds Police in confidence, on 01234 841212, the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org