On Friday 30 January, officers from Rotherham Central Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) executed a warrant at a property on Thames Street, uncovering an extensive cannabis cultivation operation spread across multiple rooms and floors.
Inside the address, officers discovered 761 cannabis plants with an estimated street value of £761,000. The property had been extensively altered, with holes knocked through walls and bricks removed to create a labyrinth-like layout, allowing easy access between rooms used to grow and tend to the plants.
The warrant was carried out as part of Operation Grow, an ongoing initiative aimed at tackling the production and supply of cannabis across Rotherham. Through a partnership approach and vital intelligence provided by local communities, the operation has already led to dozens of cannabis farms being dismantled and tens of millions of pounds worth of drugs seized.
Inspector John Crapper from Rotherham Central NPT said:
“We know cannabis grows have close ties to organised crime, making it crucial that we locate and dismantle these farms.
“Not only do they fund illegal activities, but cannabis grows can significantly impact the quality of life for residents and nearby businesses. Electricity is often bypassed within these enterprises, posing a serious fire risk for neighbouring properties.
“I would urge the public to report any concerns to us. Please look out for the signs that a property may be being used for illegal activity.”
Police continue to encourage residents to report suspicious activity, stressing that community intelligence remains key to disrupting organised crime and keeping neighbourhoods safe.
