Substantial cannabis grow discovered in South Ribble

Police are appealing for information, dashcam and doorbell footage after a substantial cannabis grow was discovered in South Ribble.

They were called to Watkin Lane in Lostock Hall at around 8.20pm last night (Wednesday, 27th December, 2023) to reports of a burglary.

It was reported that three men forced their way into the property before leaving in a silver car.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered a cannabis grow with around 500 plants. There was also evidence that the electricity had been bypassed.

No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.

Inspector Danny Clough said: “The perception that the cultivation of cannabis is a victimless crime couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality is that behind the scenes there are often links to organised criminality, violence, and exploitation of vulnerable people.

"Illegal cannabis grows often also put local residents in danger, posing a risk of fire, flood or damage and we are determined to continue to tackle this kind of criminality.”

If you have any information call 101, quoting the log number 1278 of 27th December 2023.

Operation Warrior is Lancashire Police’s response to tackling serious and organised crime in Lancashire and delivering on Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden's Fighting Crime Plan priority of disrupting and dismantling organised crime.

It aims to target the individuals and gangs involved in crime, as well as associated issues such as violence and intimidation, large scale drug supply, exploitation, and fraud, all of which can cause serious harm to local communities.