Cannabis factory found in borough

On Saturday, officers seized about 300 cannabis plants with an estimated street value of 250,000 from a house at Ballywatermoy Road which, police say, was rented out to tenants.

Commenting on the find, Chief Inspector Ryan Henderson said: “This is something that we have come across before and we are advising landlords to be wary.

“Ideally they should make regular checks of their properties and should report anything suspicious to police.

“The kind of thing for landlords – and neighbours - to be suspicious of is curtains and blinds of a house drawn and lights on all day as well as all night.

“Landlords usually have a right to visit their own properties at reasonable times that suit the tenant, but if a tenant seems nervous about visits or reluctant to allow the landlord into all parties of the property, that can be suspicious too,” said the Chief Inspector.

“Sudden increases in electricity bills may also be an indicator, as will rewiring of the house,” he added.

“Tenants trying to disguise the smell of drug production may also use powerful deodorisers or air fresheners.

“It is important for landlords to realise that quite apart from the illegality that may be going on, there is the potential for their properties to sustain considerable amounts of damage and they may be left significantly out of pocket,” he said.

He appealed to anyone who suspects that a property is being used for the cultivation of drugs is asked to contact police.

The number to call is 0845 600 8000. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.