Huge cannabis farm discovered in disused former Co-Op building

Officers discovered the farm in the disused former Co-Op building on Wood’s Terrace in Murton.

The farm was discovered thanks to thermal imaging cameras and information from local people.

A Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: “Officers from Seaham & Easington Neighbourhood Police Team forced entry to the building and worked their way through a maze of attics and hidden doors.

“Inside they uncovered a system of tents, each containing hundreds of plants, bypassed electrical wires, and evidence of the ‘farmers’ having lived in the building.

“Work is currently underway to identify the perpetrators.

“Remember that while cannabis may be ‘just a plant’, not only is it a controlled drug, but operations such as the one uncovered here can be fraught with dangers not only to those responsible, but to the wider community.

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“In particular, tampering with the electrics of the building poses a significant fire risk.”

Anyone with concerns about suspicious drugs related activity are urged to call Durham Constabulary on 101.