Five arrests made by Suffolk Police after cannabis factories discovered in Ipswich and Kesgrave

Suffolk Police have said a large amount drugs have been taken out of the supply chain, after two cannabis farms in the Ipswich area were dismantled earlier this week.

The first discovery was made after police officers on patrol in Ipswich stopped a silver Mercedes on Colchester Road at 6.40pm on Wednesday, December 7.

Following a search, the driver and passenger of the car were both arrested under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Police officers then used their search powers to ender an address in Orchard Grove Kesgrave where they discovered 78 mature cannabis plants and a further arrest was made.

The three males suspects, Taulant Mataj, aged 40, of no fixed address, Taulant Kingji, aged 31, of Cotton Road, Mendlesham and Dorald Mica, aged 21, of Orchard Grove, Kesgrave were taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning.

The men have since been charged with the production of cannabis and have been remanded in custody, they are set to appear at Ipswich Magistrates Court today, Friday, December 9.

Yesterday, Thursday, December 8, officers from the Neighbourhood Response Team in Ipswich acted on intelligence regarding a disused commercial building in Princes Street.

Officers searching the building found a large number of cannabis plants across the three floors.

UK Power Networks had to be called to ensure everything was safe, as the mains electricity had been tampered with.

Two men, aged 26 and 27, have been arrested on suspicion of production of cannabis in connection with this discovery.

They were taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre where they currently remain for questioning.

Superintendent Andy Martin, Southern Area Commander, said: "These two cases demonstrate how our officers act on their instincts, develop credible intelligence and take swift and robust action where necessary.

"Both factories have now been dismantled and all the plants destroyed, ensuring these drugs are taken out of the supply chain and will not become something sold on our streets."

Signs of a cannabis factory can include a strong or sickly sweet smell in the air; buildings with windows constantly blocked off; high levels of heat and condensation and the constant buzz of ventilation.

Buildings containing cannabis factories can also be visited at unsociable hours.

Members of the public who have concerns or information regarding the production or sale of illegal drugs in their community, should contact their local policing team, details can be found on the Suffolk Constabulary website.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.