Police seize hundreds of cannabis plants - after landlord discovers drugs factory in his Southsea property

An energy company notified police about a cannabis factory in St Ronans Road on Wednesday, September 9.

Less than ten days later, a Southsea landlord uncovered a cannabis factory in one of his properties in Oxford Road, with police seizing the drugs produce after a warrant was carried out.

Enquiries are ongoing to locate those believed to have been involved at each address.

Residents can continue to assist the police by reporting suspicious activity associated with cannabis factories, according to a statement from Hampshire Constabulary.

It continued: ‘We are really keen to hear from people who suspect there is cannabis cultivation or drug related activity going on their neighbourhood.

‘It might sound obvious, but most cannabis grows are discovered by passers-by or keen-nosed residents catching a whiff of the drug's familiar smell.

‘Landlords might notice damp on the walls or peeling wallpaper, while from the outside a neighbour might spot condensation on the windows, even when it's not the depths of winter.’

Other signs of possible cannabis growing include constantly covered or blacked out windows, as well as strong, constant lighting through out the day and night.

Anyone with any information can inform the police by calling 101.

You can also report anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

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