Five men have been arrested after police raided a large cannabis factory in London.
Hundreds of plants were found growing in a 32,000 sq ft industrial unit in Charlton, southeast London.
The Metropolitan Police obtained a warrant to gain entry and search the site on Eastmoor Street after receiving a tip-off about the factory.
The Met Police said it was ‘a significant drug production site’
The farm was in a 32,000 sq ft industrial unit
A National Police Air Service helicopter carried out reconnaissance of the site.
Acting Inspector Matt Boniface said: “This was a significant drug production site with hundreds of plants producing a controlled drug, intended for sale on London’s streets, to line the pockets of criminals.
“These sites are also a fire hazard, so it is important they are identified and shut down at the earliest opportunity.
“Drugs are often the root cause of the violence we see in the capital. Seizures like this play a huge part in our ongoing efforts to reduce violent crime and make communities safer.”
A police helicopter carried out reconnaissance of the site
The officer urged anyone who suspects a cannabis factory is being run in their neighbourhood to call police immediately.
Tell-tale signs at a property include the smell, covered windows and bright lighting around the clock.
Members of the public should also look out for ventilation sounds, lots of condensation and an absence of snow or frost on the roof.
Five men were arrested at the scene on suspicion of cultivation of cannabis, police said.
