Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Thursday 3rd April 2025, at 15:25hrs

Lancashire Police have seized a substantial cannabis farm following a warrant executed on Burnley Road, Crawshawbooth, on Monday.
A 29-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of cultivating cannabis, and subsequently further arrested on suspicion of immigration offences.
The discovery highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the illegal cultivation of cannabis, which police emphasized can have significant detrimental effects on local communities.

“We know that we will likely get the same comments… ‘They’re just plants, they shouldn’t be illegal…’ ‘Go and arrest real criminals…’ ‘Liked and shared, hope I win…’ ‘Are these still available?’…” a police statement read.
“BUT, they are illegal and the cultivation of cannabis can have a major impact on our communities. From dangerous wiring and the electricity being bypassed, to links to modern slavery and organised crime groups, cannabis, although some people think it’s ‘just a plant’, can have devastating effects and we will not tolerate it in our town.”

Police highlighted the dangers associated with cannabis cultivation, including fire hazards from bypassed electrical systems and the potential involvement of organized crime and modern slavery.
The arrested man is currently under investigation for both drug and immigration-related offences.
In addition to the drug raid, local officers partnered with Lancashire Parking Services to address parking concerns raised by residents through the Lancashire Talking initiative.
The joint operation focused on improving safety and parking practices outside schools during drop-off and pick-up times. Several drivers were given verbal warnings regarding their parking.
Lancashire Police are urging residents to participate in the Lancashire Talking survey to voice their concerns and contribute to community safety.
They also encourage residents to sign up for the “In the Know” service for local updates.
“We would encourage you, if you haven’t done so already, to take our Lancashire Talking survey to let us know what concerns you have in your area.
You can also sign up to In the Know to keep updated with what’s going on in your area,” the police statement concluded, providing the link https://www.stayintheknow.co.uk/.
The operation was part of #OpWarrior, Lancashire Police’s ongoing initiative to tackle crime and enhance community safety.