A property in Southall being used to cultivate cannabis was one many locations nationwide that was targeted by police as part of a nationwide operation which resulted in more than 1,000 arrests of people in England and Wales.
In total, police nationwide seized cannabis with a street value of up to £130 million while just in London alone, police closed down 65 cannabis factories as part of Operation Mille.
Police also confirmed that one of the cannabis factories was located in Clarence Street, Southall.
The operation was led by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and the council say it was the largest national operation of its kind.
As part of Operation Mille, London’s Metropolitan Police, with support from the City of London and Ministry of Defence Police conducted 74 warrants and searches which saw them seizing more than 7,250 cannabis plants, 60kg of prepared cannabis resin, 200 rocks of crack cocaine and five firearms.
As a result of the operation 48 people have been arrested, with 27 of those being charged.
Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Trevers, who led Operation Mille for the Metropolitan Police said: “This operation has disrupted the production and supply of drugs into our communities. Cannabis factories are strongly associated with high levels of violence and are a cause of misery across local communities where these criminal enterprises are situated. Although this was an unprecedented month of action, this work takes place in London all year round. I can assure Londoners that everyday there are teams who are continuing to disrupt organised criminal groups operating in our city.
Police have said if members of the public suspect a property is being used for the cultivation of cannabis they can report it online, or by calling 101. Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111.
