Leeds Cannabis Factory Closed

A cannabis factory estimated to be worth more than £500,000 has been shut down in north east Leeds.

Police discovered the cannabis factory in a terraced property on Bellbrooke Grove, Harehills following information from local residents.

Officer forced their way into the house and found a sophisticated factory with plants at various stages of growth.

They were being cultivated in several rooms, from the cellar to the bedrooms and attic, a police spokesman said.

Electricity had also been abstracted from the mains supply and was being used to power a strong lighting while the plants, some of which were 4ft tall, were being fed through an automatic pump system operated from the bath.

Inspector Jackie Hawkes, who leads the Burmantofts and Richmond Hill Neighbourhood Policing Team, said the closure will have a "significant impact" on the localised drug market.

"Cannabis factories are used by organised criminals to fund a number of other illegal activities that are often perpetrated on those living and working in the same area.

"Cannabis factories can emit a strong and unusual smell and neighbours may hear noises whilst a factory is being set up. They may also see people coming and going with bags and other equipment such as powerful lights," added the police inspector.

(PR/KMcA)