£45 Million Drug Bust: Police Uncover Huge Cannabis Farms Across the South West

Major Operation Targets Organised Crime Networks

A coordinated police crackdown on large-scale cannabis production has led to 32 property searches, 36 arrests, and the destruction of over 2,240 cannabis plants across the South West. The operation, which took place between 17th and 23rd February, also saw the seizure of cash, weapons, and other drugs, reinforcing efforts to dismantle organised crime groups operating in the region.

The action was part of Operation Mille, a national effort to target criminal networks involved in cannabis cultivation. It coincided with a regional collaboration—now in its 11th deployment—between Devon & Cornwall Police, Avon & Somerset Police, Dorset Police, Gloucestershire Police, Wiltshire Police, and the South West Organised Crime Unit (ROCU).

Drugs, Cash, and Weapons Seized

During the operation, police confiscated a significant haul, including:

• 2,240 cannabis plants
• £57,335 in cash
• 246g of cocaine
• 500g and 32 wraps of ketamine
• Over 20 Nitrous Oxide (NOS) canisters
• Six knives, a firearm, a BB gun, an axe, and an electrocution device

In Devon and Cornwall alone, 500 cannabis plants worth £250,000 were seized from six locations. Officers also confiscated £10,500 in cash, four vehicles linked to drug supply, and a range of weapons, including an imitation firearm, a large zombie-style knife, a hammer, and a knuckleduster.

A further 10kg of cannabis, 100g of cocaine, and 50g of crack cocaine—with a combined estimated street value of over £15,500—were recovered.

‘A Much Larger Network of Organised Crime’

Assistant Chief Constable Jim Pearce of Devon & Cornwall Police, speaking on behalf of the five forces, highlighted the broader dangers linked to large-scale cannabis farms.

“Behind these operations lies a much larger network of organised crime, which brings significant harm and disruption to our communities. Cannabis farms are often linked to anti-social behaviour, violence, and other drug-related activities. The illegal profits fund further criminality both in the UK and internationally.”

ACC Pearce also stressed the human cost of these criminal operations:

“Many of those forced to run these groups are vulnerable individuals, often victims of human trafficking and exploitation. Organised crime groups prey on these people for financial gain and with little regard for their well-being.”

How to Spot a Cannabis Farm in Your Neighbourhood

Police are urging the public to report any suspected illegal drug activity. Signs of large-scale cannabis production include:

• An increase in visitors and vehicles at unsocial hours
• Windows permanently covered
• Unusual levels of security at a residential property
• Trailing cables and electrical installations running off street lighting
• Heavy condensation on windows, even in warm weather
• A distinctive smell in the area
• Bright lights at all hours from windows, lofts, or garages

ACC Pearce encouraged the public to remain vigilant:

“There can be signs that illegal cannabis cultivation is happening in a neighbourhood or community. If you think this is happening where you live, contact the police, and let them know, or make an anonymous report through Crimestoppers, don’t put up with it.”

Police and Crime Commissioners Back the Crackdown

Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez reaffirmed the commitment of all five South West forces in tackling drug crime.

“On behalf of the Police and Crime Commissioners of the five South West police forces, we continue to work together with our partners to combat the scourge of drugs in our region. We listened to our communities and prioritised drugs which created Operation Scorpion. We are as true and resolute to that now, in its 11th deployment, as we were for it first in 2022.”

Hernandez also emphasised the importance of community intelligence, stating:

“A lot of the successful police activity had been driven by ordinary members of the public like you or I, and we would like to thank everyone for the information they have provided and reinforce the importance of community intelligence to ensure success.”

Nationwide Impact of Operation Mille

Police forces across England and Wales took part in the latest phase of Operation Mille, achieving:

• 346 warrants and searches
• 45,746 cannabis plants seized, with an estimated street value of £45,746,000
• 225 arrests
• 59 weapons seized, including 14 firearms
• £183,299.75 in cash confiscated
• 17 individuals suspected of being modern slavery victims referred for support

For more details on Operation Mille, visit the National Police Chiefs Council website.

How to Report Suspicious Activity

If you suspect illegal drug activity in your area, report it to police:

• Call 101 or visit www.devon-cornwall.police.uk
• To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers via their website or call 0800 555 111
• If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999