Police have discovered a cannabis factory at a property in Hatfield with more than 400 plants and a street value of £250,000.

On Monday, April 8, officers from the Welwyn Hatfield Neighbourhood Policing Team and East Herts Operational Support Group raided a house in Honeysuckle Gardens, following reports of cannabis use outside the address.

Upon gaining entry, officers discovered between 460 and 480 cannabis plants being grown in five rooms, with the factory having an approximate street value of more than £250,000.

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

Welwyn Hatfield Times: The factory had a street value of more than £250,000.The factory had a street value of more than £250,000. (Image: Herts police)

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"Cannabis farms are not only illegal but they present a danger to neighbouring properties as they are a serious fire risk," said Sergeant Robert Wilson, from the Welwyn Hatfield NPT.

"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.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: More than 400 plants were spread out across five rooms.More than 400 plants were spread out across five rooms. (Image: Herts police)

"You may notice a sweet, sickly aroma or frequent visitors throughout the day and night. The property may have blacked out windows, or vents 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 at herts.police.uk/report, via online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact, or by calling the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.