Police make criminal discovery after responding to flat fire

Police made a criminal discovery after responding to a flat fire in Worcestershire. Officers from the West Mercia force found around 150 cannabis plants at various stages of growth inside the property.

The fire service was already at the scene of the blaze in Bromyard Road in Worcester, just after 7.30pm, yesterday, Thursday, November 21. It was thought the fire was started by an electrical fault.

No-one was in the property and no arrests were made. Officers were at the scene making it safe so the cultivation could be cleared and inquiries into the grow continued.

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Insp Neil Solomon said: “Cannabis farms like this one not only impact negatively on our communities as they are often linked to serious and organised criminal gangs, but they are dangerous to run and can have devastating impacts on our neighbourhoods.

“Luckily this fire was put out by the fire service before it could spread to other properties, but this could have had a much worse outcome.

"The community can help police by continuing to report any signs of criminal activity – the easiest way to do this is on our website. Any bit of information, no matter how small it may seem, could help make a big difference. You can report online at Report a crime | West Mercia Police.”

Alternatively, if you have information but don’t feel comfortable speaking to police, you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers. It is 100 per cent anonymous, they never ask your name, and they cannot trace your call or IP address. You can contact them online or by calling 0800 555 111.