Officers in Bedale have successfully dismantled a cannabis farm valued at approximately £400,000, following a tip-off from an electrical supplier.

The operation occurred during the afternoon of the 21st of February after concerns were raised concerning irregular power usage at a property in Aiskew, Bedale, following a local power outage.

Officers arrived at the premises on Jubilee Road and observed two individuals fleeing the scene. Shortly after a police helicopter was employed to aid in the search. Shortly thereafter, the two men were located and arrested on suspicion of involvement in the supply of Class B drugs.

The suspects, both in their thirties, are thought to be members of an organised crime group connected to the Western Balkan area of Europe. 

Inside the property, officers discovered a large-scale cannabis farm with plants spread across multiple rooms. The operation was advanced, with production methods suggesting an organised crime group managed it. 

Superintendent Teresa Lam, area commander for Hambleton and Richmondshire, highlighted the risks linked to these crimes.

“Cannabis farming is not just harmful in itself; it is often linked to more serious criminal activities like human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and the distribution of Class A drugs,” she stated. “Organized crime also poses significant health and safety risks, as evidenced by the electrical fault that led to this investigation.”

Police are continuing to encourage landlords, letting agents, and the public to report any suspicious activities in their communities.