Staffordshire Police have discovered a cannabis factory at a farmhouse near Lichfield.
Around 500 plants, together with growing equipment, were discovered after police raided Spring Hill Farm in Walsall Road.
Officers from Trent Valley Division’s pro-active unit, supported by local officers, raided the property on May 4.
They took away around 500 plants for examination and a police investigation into the illegal growing operation is now underway.
Inspector Trevor Steventon, Commander of Lichfield Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said cracking down on illegal drugs was a priority for police and urged landlords to be aware of criminals renting properties and turning them into cannabis growing factories. He added:
“We would urge property owners to watch out for tell-tale signs such people coming and going at unusual times of the day and night; deliveries of composting and gardening materials; ventilation pipes appearing from windows and chimneys and strange smells.
“If landlords or neighbours do have suspicions, they should contact police and we will take the necessary action.”
Police are urging anyone with information about illegal drugs in their community to contact them on 0300 123 44 55 or, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.