Drug factory in flat sniffed out by police

A cannabis factory packed with plants to a street value of £40,000 has been discovered in Coldhurst.

Officers searched a flat in Rochdale Road at about 9am on Friday and found 75 plants inside.

Inquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible for cultivating the drugs.

Sgt Rob Howarth, of the Priority Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “It was evident that cannabis was being produced from the smell and fumes from the address, which could be smelt at street level.

“This was clearly a professionally-run cannabis factory. Smaller plants were being carefully cultivated in a bathroom while there were purpose-built growing tents set up for the larger plants. We also found growing mediums, fertiliser and nutrients along with electronic scales and drugs packaging.

“The electricity supply has been illegally tampered with and colleagues from United Utilities were called out to make the electricity supply safe.

“PCSOs in the area have dropped off leaflets and have been on hand to address any concerns in an effort to reassure the community.”

Local residents are being urged to report any tell-tale signs of cannabis farms to police.

These include obvious smells, houses with the curtains constantly closed, condensation on windows and people coming in and out at unusual times of the day.

Sgt Howarth said: “We also want to advise landlords to make regular visits to their properties.

“In cases where tenants are cultivating cannabis, the landlord is often left out of pocket due to the damage caused both to the property and the electricity supply.”

Anyone with concerns about drug dealing in their area should call police on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111.