Police officers stumbled upon a suspected cannabis farm after intervening in what they thought to be a break-in.
Officers patrolling Theydon Bois in the early hours of yesterday morning (Tuesday, May 26) were alerted to a suspicious-looking vehicle outside a house in Abridge Road.
PC's suspected the man might have been trying to break in, Essex Police said.
Inside they found almost 100 suspected cannabis growing in multiple rooms and a machete, sword, knuckle duster and BB gun.
Two men aged 55 and 24, a 48-year-old woman from Theydon Bois, and a 27-year-old man from Loughton were arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis.
Sgt Lucy Bearman said: “Cannabis growing is not a victim-less crime as the production of illegal drugs is closely associated with violence and the exploitation of vulnerable people.
“Our investigation remains ongoing and we’d like to hear from anyone with information that could help with our enquiries.
“I also ask anyone who sees any signs of cannabis cultivation in their communities to please contact us so we can take action.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the Loughton local policing team on 101 or report online at www.essex.police.uk/do-it-online
You can also contact the Crimestoppers charity 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org
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