POLICE mounted an operation to close down a cannabis-growing operation in Grays after suspicions were raised by neighbours - who reported 'there has been a whiff of fresh plants in the road for months…..'

A significant number of officers were involved in the operation on Grove Road yesterday (Wednesday, 23 February) and Network Power workers were involved in helping sort the lighting and heating issues inside the house.

The operation began when officers swooped yesterday morning.

A neighbour told Nub News: "Officers brought out multiple bags of plants. An officer, and a Network Power chap came out gasping for air and had to have a little sit down, as the stench of weed had obviously got to them.

"They spent all day clearing out the growing equipment, and had a car sitting there most of the evening watching over the property."

A police statement says: "Officers executed a warrant at an address in Grove Road, Grays shortly before 8.25am on Wednesday, 23 February.

"Inside they found what was described as a large cannabis grow. A 33 year-old man was arrested on suspicion of cannabis cultivation and has since been released under investigation."