Police destroy cannabis factory at empty property

Cannabis factory in Hatfield was destroyed by the police

A cannabis factory worth more than a quarter of a million pounds has been destroyed by police.

The Welwyn Hatfield neighbourhood policing team attended a property in Honeysuckle Gardens, Hatfield, on Monday following reports of cannabis use outside of the address. They were joined by officers from the East Herts operational support group.

The officers discovered five rooms inside the property that were being used to grow cannabis. There were an estimated 460-480 plants – with an approximate street value of more than £250,000.

The property was unoccupied at the time and an investigation is now underway to find those responsible.

'Sickly aroma'

Hertfordshire Constabulary said destruction of this cannabis factory will “significantly disrupt the local drugs network”.

Sgt Robert Wilson said: “There are a number of signs that a property could be being used as a cannabis factory. You may notice a sweet, sickly aroma or frequent visitors throughout the day and night.

“The property may have blacked out windows, or vents sealed [or] blocked to prevent the heat and smell of cannabis from inside the property escaping.

"There may also be chinks of bright light throughout the night. If you are suspicious about a property, please don’t hesitate to report it.”