Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 7th March 2025, at 09:05hrs
South Lancashire has seen a significant blow to organised crime after police executed a series of warrants targeting large-scale cannabis cultivation.
Five individuals are now facing charges following a coordinated operation, dubbed Op Mille, which aimed to dismantle illicit drug production across the region.
Officers carried out eight drugs warrants across Chorley, Preston, and Lostock Hall, resulting in the seizure of over 1,300 cannabis plants. The raids also led to the arrest of five people, who have since been charged with the production of cannabis and abstracting electricity.
In addition to the plants, a substantial amount of cash and mobile phones were seized, providing further evidence of the organised criminal activity.
Law enforcement officials emphasised the wider impact of such operations, highlighting the strong links between cannabis cultivation and other serious crimes. “Organised crime, like this, is heavily connected to violence, exploitation and anti-social behaviour,” stated a police spokesperson. “It fuels other criminal activity, including county lines and other drug trafficking, modern slavery, human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.”
The message from the police is clear: such criminal activity will not be tolerated. The successful execution of Op Mille demonstrates their commitment to tackling drug-related offences and protecting communities from the associated harms.
The five individuals arrested are now facing legal proceedings, and police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
They encourage anyone with information about drug-related crime to come forward and assist in their efforts to keep South Lancashire safe.
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