Police uncover cannabis factory in Hatfield

A cannabis factory has been destroyed by police after it was discovered by officers from the Welwyn Hatfield Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT).

On Monday (8 April), the team attended a property in Honeysuckle Gardens, Hatfield, following reports of cannabis use outside the address. They were joined by officers from the East Herts Operational Support Group.

Upon gaining entry, the officers discovered five rooms that were being used to grow cannabis. There were an estimated 460-480 plants – with an approximate street value of more than £250,000.

The property was unoccupied at the time and an investigation is now underway to find those responsible.

Sergeant Robert Wilson, from the Welwyn Hatfield NPT, said: “Cannabis farms are not only illegal but they present a danger to neighbouring properties as they are a serious fire risk. The destruction of this cannabis factory will significantly disrupt the local drugs network and make the community safer.

“There are a number of signs that a property could be being used as a cannabis factory. You may notice a sweet, sickly aroma or frequent visitors throughout the day and night. The property may have blacked out windows, or vents sealed/blocked to prevent the heat and smell of cannabis from inside the property escaping. There may also be chinks of bright light throughout the night. If you are suspicious about a property, please don’t hesitate to report it.”

 You can report information online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form (opens in a new window).

Spot the signs of cannabis cultivation:

• A powerful distinctive sweet, sickly aroma
• Frequent visitors throughout the day and night
• Blacked out windows, or vents sealed/blocked to prevent the heat and smell of cannabis from inside the property escaping
• Chinks of bright light throughout the night
• Birds gathering on the roof, particularly in cold weather
• In winter, snow melting unusually quickly on the roof
• High levels of condensation on windows
• Noise from fans
• Large amounts of rubbish, including compost bags
• Electricity meter being tampered with/altered and new cabling, sometimes leading to street lighting.

Photos or the cannabis factory