A £2million cannabis farm has been uncovered in South Shields, with two men charged and over 2,000 plants seized.
Northumbria Police officers, and the North East Regional Crime Unit, discovered the industrial scale farm, after executing a warrant at a premises on Commercial Road.
On Monday morning, following reports of suspicious activity in the area, the Force’s Dog Section, the Firearms Support Unit, and the Serious Violence Disruption Unit arrived at the the property and forced entry to the gates using a chainsaw.
Once inside, they discovered around 2,000 cannabis plants at various stages of growth, with a potential street value of around £2million.
Two men, aged 43 and 45, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of cannabis production. They have now been charged in connection with the report and were scheduled to appear before magistrates in South Tyneside today.
Northumbria Police officers are remaining at the address over the coming days, in order to carry out enquiries and safely dismantle the farm.
Chief Inspector Phil Baker of Northumbria Police, said: “There is absolutely no place for this type of criminality in our region. It goes without saying that farms of this scale can have a significant negative ripple effect on the surrounding communities, with large-scale operations often linked to serious and organised crime.
“Nobody wants this type of illicit activity on their doorstep – and we would urge people to continue to report anything suspicious in their area so we can take swift action. I’d like to thank those involved in the investigation so far for playing a part in putting a stop to a harmful operation such as this and crackdown on drug supply.”
Members of the public can contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message through social media, or by using live chat and report forms on the website here.
Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101, and they can also share information anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting the website here.
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