Cannabis farm discovered in Macclesfield thanks to community intelligence

Officers from Macclesfield Local Policing unit have recovered more than 700 cannabis plants thanks to information from the local community.

On Thursday 8 May, police were called to reports of suspicious activity at a former bank on Chestergate, Macclesfield.

The caller reported witnessing suspicious men entering the disused building, along with a strong smell of cannabis in the area.

Officers were dispatched to the scene and after entering the premises they discovered approximately 700 cannabis plants, all at varying stages of growth, along with heat lighting, fans, irrigation systems, which were spread over three floors.

A 43-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the production of a class B drug. He remains in police custody at this time.

Chief Inspector Zoe Bowden, Head of Macclesfield Local Policing Unit, said:

“This is another great result which demonstrates the value of intelligence from the public. As a result of the information provided, not only have we removed a significant quantity of cannabis the streets of Macclesfield, but we’ve also arrested a man for producing illegal drugs.

“The supply and use of illegal drugs has an incredibly negative impact on the community, and our fight against this type of behaviour is never over. We will continue to do all we can to put a stop to this activity.

“I urge anyone with any information about suspected drug related activity in their community to get in touch. You will be listened to, and we will investigate the matter.”

 There are a number signs that could indicate that a property is being used as a cannabis farm, including:

• A strong and sickly sweet smell
• Equipment to grow cannabis being taken into a property, such as lighting and ventilation equipment
• Constantly covered or blocked-off windows – cannabis farms often have constantly closed curtains, black-out blinds or foil coverings
• People coming and going at all hours or neighbours you never see
• Strong and constant lighting day and night
• High levels of heat and condensation – cannabis farms often give off heat and the windows stay misted up
• A constant buzz of ventilation – listen out for a whirring sound as the growers try to create an ideal climate for cannabis plants to grow.
• Lots of power cables – offenders often dig underground to lay cables that hook up to things like lamp posts so they do not have to pay for the enormous amounts of electricity they use.

To report a suspected cannabis farm or any other type of drug-related offence, call us 101, give the details via our website or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.