
Investigation into 'large-scale' cannabis farm with £640,000 worth of drugs
Police have launched an investigation after a 'large-scale' cannabis farm containing drugs worth £640,000 was discovered in Alloa.
Officers say around 5.30pm on Tuesday, a warrant was executed at a premises on Church Street where a large-scale cannabis cultivation was discovered.
Drugs worth approximately £640,000 were found within and enquiries are ongoing.
Detective Inspector John Currie said: 'This recovery means a significant quantity of drugs will not end up on our streets.
'Drugs cause misery in our communities, and we are determined to disrupt the supply of illegal substances and trace those involved.
'This recovery underlines our commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce and the country's Serious Organised Crime Strategy.
'In addition to the contributing to the illegal trade of drugs, these cultivations pose a serious fire risk and anyone with suspicions that a premises is being used as a cultivation is urged to contact us.
'Information from the public is absolutely crucial to our work and we urge anyone with knowledge or concerns about drugs activity in their area to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.'
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