Cannabis and the law

Neighbours of the property in Kent Street, Sedlescombe, were concerned the building had been broken into.

Although no-one was believed to have been living in the property, lights had been seen on in the building over several days.

The neighbours called the police with their concerns and officers called at the house at around 8.10pm on Sunday (October 7).

But instead of arriving to find the scene of a burglary, officers were greeted with the sight of 150 cannabis plants growing in the front room of the property.

Alongside the medium-sized plants was hydroponics equipment, set up to ensure good conditions for growing the Class B drug.

Whoever created the factory was also illegally abstracting electricity to keep the cultivation equipment working.

Sussex Police called EDF Energy to the scene to make the property safe.

Scenes of Crime Officers from Sussex Police gathered evidence and on Wednesday the plants and cultivation paraphernalia were removed from the property.

A 40-year-old man from Sedlescombe has been arrested on suspicion of production of cannabis.

He was questioned by police and has since been released on conditional police bail until December 18 to allow further enquiries take place.

Sergeant Paul Masterson, of Battle Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “It is clear from this discovery that neighbours looking out for each other isn’t just about protecting homes and identifying security risks but can also lead to finds such as this.

“Without the vigilance of members of the local community this cannabis factory could still be in operation and for that I thank you all.

“Please continue to remain vigilant and report suspicious behaviour, vehicles and situations.

“Remember, we rely on you.”

Anyone with any information about drug production in the area, or anyone wishing to report suspicious behaviour, should contact Sussex Police on the non-emergency 101 number.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.