Police have uncovered a highly sophisticated cannabis cultivation operation inside a disused poultry unit near Burbage, Wiltshire. Featuring over 1,500 plants with an estimated street value of £500,000, the farm is believed to be one of the largest ever found in the county.
Wiltshire Police reported that approximately £1.5 million worth of electricity was illegally siphoned from the national grid to power the extensive setup. Detective Sergeant Joe Shanklin detailed the 60m by 12m single-storey building’s conversion into multiple rooms housing cannabis plants at various growth stages, from seedlings to mature bushes.
“The operation included a sophisticated arrangement of grow lamps and a full irrigation system, all running on stolen electricity,” said Sgt. Shanklin. “We also discovered evidence that people had been living onsite, with makeshift bedrooms and cooking facilities within the barn. The scale suggests this has been operating for quite some time.”
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The farm was reported by a member of the public on July 17. Since then, engineers have disconnected the dangerous electricity supply while police carefully catalog and remove the plants and equipment. Officers are working in challenging conditions, using protective gear in high temperatures under temporary lighting.
The seized cannabis will be securely destroyed at a licensed facility. No arrests were made at the scene, but investigations remain ongoing.
Police urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected illegal drug activity by calling 101 or submitting information online. Anonymous tips can also be made through Crimestoppers at 0800 555111.