Cannabis Factory Uncovered

A cannabis factory containing 2,300 plants and taking up three floors of a disused hotel has been uncovered by police. South Wales Police say they have smashed a “sophisticated drugs making factory” after following up a tip-off from a member of public regarding the Jubilee Hotel in Tylorstown, Rhondda.

The building was raided on Sunday at 10am and officers found over 1,000 mature and 1,300 juvenile plants which they claim would have netted many thousands of pounds had it made its way onto the streets of south Wales.

Six men have been arrested and have been detained at Pontypridd police station in south Wales. Half of the men are of Chinese origin, and the other half are thought to be Vietnamese.

At Pontypridd Magistrates Court yesterday morning application for further detention of the suspects was granted.

Chief Superintendent Jeff Farrar, Divisional Commander for Merthyr and Rhondda Cynon Taff said: “This is a significant find for officers and I am in no doubt that what has been dismantled is an organised drugs racket which intended to flood the area with the potent drug. This seizure and the arrests are thanks to a member of the public who noticed and more importantly reported suspicious activity in the area.

“It demonstrates the important role the eyes and ears of the public can play in providing intelligence to combat crime. This was a sophisticated drugs operation; the sort we know comes hand in hand with violence that can have a devastating effect of the community.

“The public can be reassured that Rhondda and the surrounding area is now a safer place, and we urge anyone with any information in relation to this case or any other, to inform the police or call Crimestoppers.”