Thames Valley Police has carried out 31 warrants on suspected cannabis grows as part of the largest national operation of its kind, aimed at unearthing and disrupting organised crime groups (OCGs) and their illegal revenue streams.

The warrants, which ran through June 2023, saw 35 arrests as well as the seizures of drugs, plants, and electronic devices.

Chief Superintendent Jim Weems of Thames Valley Police said: “Cannabis factories are a very real local threat. Those tasked to look after the plants are often vulnerable and sometimes the victims of human trafficking and modern slavery.

“The size of criminal cannabis ‘factories’ means that damage is often caused to the properties themselves; the buildings can become dangerous as a result of fire risks, unlawful abstraction of electricity, fumes and water damage.

“Anyone with information about a potential cannabis factory or drug dealing can contact Thames Valley Police online or via 101. In an emergency always call 999.

“You can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or crimestoppers-uk.org”

To find out more, visit our website https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/news/thames-valley/news/2023/july/03-07-2023/organised-crime-groups-targeted-by-police-who-arrest-35-and-seize-cannabis-plants-worth-an-estimated-4202400/