LANDLORDS URGED TO CLAMP DOWN ON CANNABIS 'FARMS'

LANDLORDS who let properties in the Thames Valley police area,
including Chipping Norton and the surrounding areas of West
Oxfordshire, are being asked to be aware of tenants growing cannabis.

The warning follows an increase in the number of cannabis factories
discovered in the Thames Valley from 42 in 2006 to 123 last year,
including 26 in Oxfordshire.

Acting Assistant Chief Constable George Wilson, said: "During the last
12 months, Thames Valley Police has seen a marked increase in
Vietnamese linked cannabis houses "In the majority of cases an
ordinary terrace or semi-detached house is specifically bought or
rented for the sole purpose of growing cannabis. The house is then
kitted out with special hydroponic equipment, which is then used to
produce up to UKP70,000-worth of cannabis every 11 or 12 weeks.

Mr Wilson said these factories can cause thousands of pounds worth of
damage to the properties. "In many cases the electricity is bypassed
which could cause electrocution or even a fire. It is also known that
in some cases, booby traps have been left in the houses.

"It is in the landlords' interests to keep a close eye on their
property and report anything suspicious to the police," he added.

Signs to spot a suspected cannabis farm include: Windows permanently
covered from the inside, Visits to the premises occur at unusual
times, People often do not live in the premises and only visit to
maintain them, A vent protruding through the roof or a rear window, A
pungent smell coming from the premises, and Noise coming from the
equipment in the premises.

Anyone suspecting there is a cannabis factory in their area is asked
to contact policon 0845 8 505 505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800
555 111.