Bristol drugs factory uncovered

A drugs factory thought to contain up to 1,000 plants has been uncovered by police at an industrial estate in Bristol.

Police acting on intelligence raided an industrial unit at the Fishponds Trading Estate in Deep Pit Road, Speedwell, on Tuesday, arresting seven people they found there.

Crime scene investigators and other officers were still at the unit yesterday, collecting evidence and dealing with the plants.

Seven men from Bristol, aged 19, 22, 26, 27, 40, 45 and 46, were all arrested on suspicion of drugs offences.

Six remained in custody last night but the 40-year-old was released on police bail pending further inquiries.

The raid was carried out by officers from the Avon and Somerset police Operation Atrium dedicated drugs team, based in Bristol.

Detective Inspector Dave Bradnock from Atrium said: "This is a significant seizure of cannabis which was likely to have been sold on the streets of Bristol.

"Our actions today have prevented it reaching the street and have allowed us to arrest people we suspect are involved in producing the drug.

"Class A and B drugs are harmful not only to the people who take them but harm the community as drug addicts often fund their habits through crime."

Mr Bradnock called on anyone who believed they knew people, places or vehicles involved in the supply and use of drugs to contact the police on 0845 456 7000.