POLICE are asking landlords who let out their houses to be aware of cannabis factories.

This follows an increase in the number of factories found in the Thames Valley area.

So far this year, 123 have been discovered across the force. This compares to 42 that were discovered in 2006.

Acting Assistant Chief Constable George Wilson, said: "Following the reclassification of cannabis in 2004, there has been a significant increase in the number of cannabis houses found in the South East region.

"During the last 12 months, Thames Valley Police has seen a marked increase in Vietnamese linked cannabis houses "In the majority of cases an ordinary terrace or semi-detached house is specifically bought or rented for the sole purpose of growing cannabis.

"The house is then kitted out with special hydroponic equipment which is then used to produce up to £70,000-worth of cannabis every 11 or 12 weeks.

"These factories can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to the properties. They also pose a danger, as in many cases the electricity is by-passed which could cause electrocution or even a fire. It is also known that in some cases, booby traps have been left in the houses.

"It is in the landlords' interests to keep a close eye on their property and report anything suspicious to the police."

Spot the signs Signs to spot a suspected cannabis farm:

  • The windows of the property are permanently covered from the inside.
  • Visits to the premises occur at unusual times of the day or night.
  • People often do not live in the premises and only visit to maintain them.
  • There may be a vent protruding through the roof or a rear window.
  • There may be a pungent smell coming from the premises.
  • There may be noise coming from the equipment in the premises (i.e. cooling fans).

If you suspect that a premise is a cannabis factory, please contact police via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. Alternativley, if you do not wish to speak to police or leave your name, contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.