Cannabis was once a drug that would be imported from far-flung climes to the UK but that has not been the case for a very long time.
After hydroponic technology – a method of growing plants in water rich in mineral nutrients instead of soil – was developed to aid food production it wasn’t long before criminals realised it could be used to successfully grow cannabis in confined and easily hidden spaces.
And so the illegal cannabis farm or cannabis factory was born.
Initially empty industrial units were favoured locations for those looking to make a quick buck from the seemingly insatiable demand for cannabis in the UK.
But over time production moved into residential properties – and not just large country houses with plenty of space – but small semi-detached and terraced houses in suburban streets.
The phenomenon has been with us for quite some time now and shows no sign of going away.
Eight years ago the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) spoke of the alarming rise in…
