DRUG WARNING TO LANDLORDS

LANDLORDS are being urged to stay vigilant and prevent their
properties being turned into drugs factories.

The call has been made by Thames Valley Police after a surge in the
number of factories found during the past year.

The problem resulted in 123 cannabis dens being found at sites across
the force's area - and more than 20 discovered in Maidenhead alone.

The figures highlight the growing scale of the problem when compared
to an overall total of just 42 in 2006.

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."

He added: "These factories can cause thousands of pounds worth of
damage to the properties. They also pose a danger, as in many cases
the electricity is by-passed 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."