A whiff of suspicion leads to 700 cannabis plants in old bank building
Enterprising criminals have cashed in on the closure of a town centre bank. They took over the premises and converted it into a cannabis factory.
Police were tipped off abour suspicious activity at a former bank on Chestergate, Macclesfield. A caller reported witnessing men entering the disused building, along with a strong smell of cannabis in the area.
Officers discovered about 700 cannabis plants, all at varying stages of growth, along with heat lighting, fans, irrigation systems, which were spread over three floors.
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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 Inspectoe 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.'
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