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Questions and Answers

Why are you running this operation?

We have seen an increase in the proportion of large scale factories (1,000 plants or more) in the past 12 months and these can be an indication of organised crime elements setting up in that area. We are committed to tackling organised crime at all levels and want to send a clear message that their activities will not be tolerated.

Why are you focusing on cannabis rather than Class A drugs?

We are targeting cannabis producers in this operation because cannabis production causes significant harm to our communities. For example, factories can be a focus for crime, such as break ins, and in that way can bring crime to a community. Cannabis dealers are often involved with Class A drugs as well so it can also enable us to increase enforcement for all drugs. But the operation does not mean that we will reduce our ongoing focus on drugs like heroin and cocaine.

Why don't you do this operation all the time?

We already carry out this type of activity on an ongoing basis. For example, we recovered 25,000 plants last year forcewide. But we wanted to run a sustained three-month campaign to highlight the enforcement activity carried out in relation to cannabis factories and drive home the message that we won't tolerate drugs in Avon and Somerset.

Aren't you worried that if you tell people about this operation it will give criminals involved in this activity a chance to cover their tracks?

The key aim of this operation is to make it clear that we won't tolerate drugs in Avon and Somerset. If going public with this message means that a criminal does cease their operation in an attempt to avoid detection it will have furthered our aim to disrupt and dismantle this type of criminal activity.

Is it true that cannabis factories can be found in ordinary suburban streets?

Cannabis factories can be found in all kinds of locations, including residential areas. And there are things that residents can look out for to help us identify where those factories are. For example, properties used for the large-scale growth of cannabis often have the curtains closed all day and have condensation streaming down the windows. There will also be very little activity coming from the property and people will probably only be seen visiting it once or twice a day. There is also likely to be a strong pungent smell from the cannabis plants themselves.

What should I do if I do suspect there is a cannabis factory operating in my area?

You should call the police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, they never ask your name or trace your call. Alternatively you can report it to us on-line.