A large-scale police operation targeting organised crime groups has resulted in the seizure of cannabis plants worth more than £45 million.
Officers from Hampshire carried out 11 warrants, uncovering illegal cannabis cultivation in residential areas across Farnborough, Basingstoke, and other parts of the county.
As part of the pre-planned national operation known as Op Mille, police seized 1,400 cannabis plants, along with cash, mobile phones, weapons, and growing and lighting equipment.
The operation aims to disrupt criminal networks involved in large-scale cannabis production, which often fund other illicit activities such as illegal migration and violent crime.
A total of 11 individuals were arrested during the raids, facing charges related to drug cultivation, supply, immigration, and weapon offences. Six men have been charged and remanded. Three men have been bailed and detained by immigration authorities pending deportation. One man was released without further action but detained for deportation.
Operation Mille is a coordinated effort by police forces across the UK to dismantle organised crime groups engaged in large-scale cannabis production. This marks the third nationwide crackdown of its kind, reflecting law enforcement’s commitment to tackling illicit drug networks.
Detective Inspector Christian Reid-Milligan, who led the operation, emphasised the wider societal impact of cannabis farms. He stated that the costs to society from these criminal enterprises are far-reaching, fuelling serious violence and acquisitive crime.
With the help of local residents, police aim to dismantle these networks and send a clear message that their trade is not welcome. He further highlighted concerns over the exploitation of trafficked individuals forced to work as ‘gardeners’ in hazardous conditions, where illegal electricity connections pose significant safety risks.
In addition to the cannabis plants, police also seized 25 bin bags of cannabis and herbal cannabis, cocaine, weapons including a samurai sword and an extendable baton, and high-value items such as designer clothing, footwear, and Rolex watches.
Several of the properties raided were unoccupied, aligning with a pattern of abandoned cannabis farms noticed by investigators. In occupied premises, officers found dangerous living conditions, including faulty electrical wiring and structural damage caused by fumes and water.
Authorities have identified landlords and tradespeople as facilitators in setting up these operations, particularly electricians who enable the illegal bypassing of electricity meters.
Cannabis farms present significant risks to local communities, including fire hazards due to overloaded electrical circuits, structural damage to buildings, environmental concerns from chemicals and fertilisers, and the potential for associated violent crime.
The police urge the public to report suspected cannabis farms, highlighting key warning signs such as unusual activity at properties, blacked-out windows, high electricity consumption, and a strong, sweet aroma.
Anyone with information can contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary via 101 or report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555111.