Posted on Wednesday 8 November 2023
Four people have been arrested after police raided one of the biggest cannabis farms ever discovered in County Durham.
Officers executed a magistrates warrant at a disused bingo hall on Main Street in Ferryhill, shortly after 9.30am this morning, November 8.
During the search, officers located more than 2,000 cannabis plants and thousands of pounds worth of equipment spanning over four floors of the building.
Four men aged 23, 25, 27 and 30, who were believed to be living within the address, were also arrested at the scene on suspicion of production of a class B drug, they remain in custody.
Specialist search officers, who were deployed to the site, seized several other items from the premises including mattresses, fridges, freezers and a large quantity of food.
The food items found have since been donated to a local food bank.
Due to the size and complexities of the property, officers and electricity workers are likely to be in the area for a considerable time removing plants and making the area safe.
Detective Chief Inspector Mel Sutherland said: “We believe this sophisticated grow and complex set up found in Ferryhill today, is one of the biggest ever Cannabis farms uncovered by Durham Constabulary.
“The timing of this raid was crucial because there were a significant amount of plants which had matured and were packed up, ready for distribution. Today’s activity will serve as a massive disruption to the organised crime group not only in terms of them feeling the financial hit but also in terms of taking out several members of their network.
“Drugs bring misery to our communities, and we will continue to be relentless in our pursuit to eliminate them from the streets of County Durham and Darlington.
“I would like to thank the community of Ferryhill for their patience, cooperation and ongoing understanding as this operation continues into the evening and tomorrow.”
If you have concerns about potential drug dealing in your community, or notice anyone acting suspiciously, then please report it to us.
Alternatively, you can report information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.