Key Points
- · A man was discovered watering hundreds of cannabis plants on Hatfield Road, Bolton.
- · The operation involved the cultivation of a large number of cannabis plants across multiple rooms.
- · Police executed a raid following reports of a strong cannabis odour at the property.
- · The suspect was arrested on suspicion of cannabis cultivation and other related offences.
- · The case is part of broader police efforts targeting illegal cannabis farming, which has included other linked operations across the UK.
- · Serious concerns have been raised about the use of stolen electricity and unsafe practices linked to cannabis farm setups in the region.
- · Investigations revealed well-coordinated criminal networks using licensed utility workers and stolen power supplies to run large-scale cannabis farms.
- · Sentencing of similar cases in Greater Manchester involved prison terms for those facilitating and conspiring to grow cannabis as well as stealing electricity.
What Happened on Hatfield Road, Bolton?
As reported by several sources, a significant cannabis cultivation operation was uncovered on Hatfield Road, Bolton, when police responded to reports of a strong smell of cannabis emanating from a residential property. Upon entry, officers discovered hundreds of cannabis plants being tended in several rooms. The man responsible was found actively watering the plants, highlighting the scale and ongoing nature of the illegal cultivation.
The police immediately made arrests, with the primary suspect detained on suspicion of cannabis cultivation and related offences. Authorities confirmed the seizure of a large quantity of plants, aiming to dismantle what appeared to be an organised and ongoing operation.
How Did the Police Discover the Cannabis Farm?
According to police reports and confirmed by a statement from Inspector Adams of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (noting the comparable crackdown environment across the UK), officers were drawn to the property after detecting a potent smell of cannabis. This prompted an investigation, which uncovered the extensive cultivation setup.
Inspector Adams emphasized the significance of the find, stating: “A significant amount of drugs has been stopped from entering our streets, and what seems to be a well-coordinated operation has been dismantled. Addressing drug supply remains a key focus for the Police Service.” While this statement was made regarding activity in Northern Ireland, it reflects the seriousness with which police in all regions, including Bolton, pursue these offences.
Are Similar Cannabis Farms Found Elsewhere in the UK?
Yes, cannabis farming operations like the one in Bolton are part of a nationwide issue. An extensive criminal network operating in England and Wales exploited legitimate utility companies to supply electricity illicitly to hundreds of cannabis farms. This network included former drug offenders and involved facilities ranging from abandoned residential properties to retail spaces like pubs and department stores.
The gang, uncovered through investigations led by the North Regional Organ Crime Unit (NWROCU), operated under the guise of legitimate workers. Ross McGinn, 33, and Andrew Roberts, 42, directors of Elev8 Civils and Utilities Ltd, were sentenced to prison terms for their roles in facilitating cannabis production and the theft of electricity. Their activities spanned at least 54 locations and involved thousands of cannabis plants valued at approximately £21 million.
What Were the Illegal Practices Within These Cannabis Farm Operations?
In the Liverpool Crown Court sentencing remarks, Judge David Potter highlighted the dangerous and negligent construction practices used to facilitate these illegal cannabis farms. The conspirators had little regard for safety, evidenced in poor-quality work and hazardous setups that caused injuries to some involved, including severe burns to Andrew Roberts.
Further investigation uncovered disturbing evidence of human trafficking victims hidden within these farms, illustrating the extensive criminality intertwined with such operations. Several others associated with the conspiracy received custodial sentences after pleading guilty to offences related to cannabis cultivation and electricity theft.
What Legal Consequences Have Those Involved Faced?
Sentences handed to the defendants involved in the larger cannabis farm conspiracy reflected the serious nature of their crimes. Ross McGinn was sentenced to five years and four months, Andrew Roberts to six years, and other conspirators received terms ranging from suspended sentences to nearly four years. Colin White, a Scottish Power engineer who stole equipment to facilitate the conspiracy, was sentenced to two and a half years.
Why Is Cannabis Cultivation a Focus for Police?
Police view cannabis cultivation as a significant contribution to the illegal drug trade, posing public safety and welfare risks. Large-scale cannabis farms typically involve theft of electricity, unsafe conditions posing fire risks, and sometimes human trafficking. These factors combine to make cannabis farm operations a major target for law enforcement.
What Is the Community Impact of Cannabis Farms in Areas Like Bolton?
Cannabis farms bring multiple negative effects to communities, including dangerous illegal activities, strain on local policing resources, and potential hazards from electrical theft and poor infrastructure. The strong smell can cause nuisance to neighbours, and associated criminal networks may foster further crime in affected areas.
What Measures Are Being Taken to Combat Cannabis Cultivation?
Police and regulatory bodies continue targeting cannabis cultivation through intelligence sharing, community tips, and targeted raids. Regional and national units work together to dismantle growing and distribution networks, often uncovering linked crimes such as electricity theft and human trafficking, as seen in recent investigations across Greater Manchester and beyond.