Tip-off leads to police finding cannabis factory in Lisburn city centre

Darrin Jones said the man showed ‘tremendous civic and community responsibilities’ by helping them uncover a cannabis factory at an unused shop.

He commended the man who noticed a number of heat lamps and plants at the property and thought it suspicious.

“He decided to bring his concerns to police,” said Mr Jones. “Local officers responded to his information within minutes and were able to gain entry to the building. Once inside they confirmed the presence of a large cannabis factory.

“The factory was found to contain plants worth an estimated £170,000 along with heat lamps, fans and other equipment used in the cultivation of the drug. The scene was extensively examined and all items were taken away for further examination. “Drugs are a scourge on society, destroying lives and families. It is the duty of every single one of us to follow his example and do whatever we can to expose those involved in the sale and supply of drugs and take them off the streets of Lisburn.

“This case is an excellent example of how swiftly police will act when information is given to us. I would once again remind people to contact us if they have suspicions about a person or place, or if they believe they can help us identify those involved in the local drugs trade. I can assure you - we will listen.”

Margaret Tolerton, Chairman of the local DPP, said the find of the cannabis factory stopped drugs from getting into the community.

“I cannot commend highly enough the member of the public who brought this to the attention of the police and ultimately has uncovered this cannabis factory,” she said.

“This reinforces the fact that information from the community is vital to fight the scourge of drugs that blights local communities. This was going on right in the centre of our City and could have had a detrimental effect if it had gone on undetected. Please ensure that if you have information that you pass it to the police and this is evidence of how swift action on behalf of the police can have a very positive outcome.”

mary.magee

@ulsterstar.co.uk