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Police Uncover Major Cannabis Factory in Essex, Five Arrested

3/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Police in Chigwell, Essex, found over 1,100 cannabis plants in a barn during a search on Friday, describing the operation as a substantial and well-organised cannabis factory producing the drug on an industrial scale.
Five men were arrested, with two charged for producing a Class B drug.
Sgt Neil Ross said large-scale cannabis production is linked to organized crime, exploits vulnerable people, and fuels violence in communities.

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Story summary

Police in Chigwell, Essex, found over 1,100 cannabis plants in a barn during a search on Friday, describing the operation as a substantial and well-organised cannabis factory producing the drug on an industrial scale.
Five men were arrested, with two charged for producing a Class B drug.
Sgt Neil Ross said large-scale cannabis production is linked to organized crime, exploits vulnerable people, and fuels violence in communities.