A CANNABIS farm has been raided by police who seized 68 plants from a Middlesbrough property.

Officers from the Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Policing Team executed a drugs warrant in Alphonsus Street in North Ormesby yesterday evening.

They found 68 cannabis plants, with potential for more to be grown, and discovered that the electricity had been bypassed.

No one was arrested, however, enquiries are ongoing to find those responsible.

Sergeant John Sproson, from Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Team, said: ”Cannabis farmers often take serious risks by bypassing the electricity to properties, which can lead to major fires and can potentially put lives at risk.

"They are often reckless and have little regard for the danger they pose to those in the community living closeby.

“It is important that if anyone suspects that a cannabis farm is being grown in their local neighbourhood that they contact us.

"Some of the tell tale signs are windows being covered or curtains drawn at all times, visitors to the property at unusual times and a strong smell.

“We will act on any information which comes to us and we will continue to tackle those involved in drugs activity in the local area.”

Anyone who may have information regarding drugs activity in their local area, is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at: www.crimestoppers-uk.org.