Quick police response uncovers £86,000 cannabis farm
29 October 2025

A cannabis setup with around 86 plants was found by police officers less than 30 minutes after they received a 999 call.

South Yorkshire Police were called to Manchester Road in Stocksbridge at 12:50am on Sunday 26 October following reports of cannabis plants being moved from a vehicle into a property.

If the farm was left to fully grow, it would have an estimated street value of £86,000.

Police Sergeant Chris Shepherd, whose team covers the area from which the incident was reported, said: “Cannabis farms pose a significant risk to the property they are grown in and the people who live nearby.

“They are a significant fire risk as the electrical mains are often bypassed in an attempt to hide the criminality going on inside.

“We know that the production of cannabis also has a direct link to organised crime groups who can bring violence and misery to our streets. It is far from a harmless drug.”

Police were on the scene within 15 minutes and after entering the home, a man, aged 31, was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.

The team led a search where they found the cannabis set up in the roof and basement, and the same man was further arrested on suspicion of production, or being concerned in the production of cannabis.

He has since been released on police bail.

Sergeant Chris Shepherd added: “On this occasion, a number of knives were found inside the address where the cannabis was being grown; but they will never make their way onto our streets thanks to the quick response of officers in the early hours of Sunday.

“If you think a property near you is being used to grow cannabis, it’s important you report information to us as quickly as possible so that we can take action.

“Signs to look out for include a sweet and sickly smell, excessive condensation on windows, and visitors to the address at unusual hours of the day.”