Police have uncovered a cannabis factory with an estimated street value of at least £100,000 in the Crossmaglen area.
The discovery was made on Friday by officers from the Slieve Gullion Neighbourhood Policing Team, including an Inspector and the Crossmaglen Sergeant, who were conducting routine enquiries in the area.
While on patrol, officers noticed suspicious activity and carried out further investigations, which led them to a property in the Lismore area where a cannabis production operation was found.
It is the third cannabis factory uncovered in the Newry and South Armagh area in as many weeks, raising concerns about the growing presence of organised criminal activity in local communities.
Police said that at properties of this nature, where electricity supplies have been illegally bypassed, the Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) network must be tasked to ensure officers can work safely. On attending the scene, NIE engineers described the wiring inside the property as being incredibly dangerous and said the house posed a serious fire risk.
Officers warned that illegal cannabis factories present a significant danger not only to those involved but also to neighbouring homes.
Police highlighted that a similar operation uncovered recently in Bessbrook had gone up in flames due to faulty wiring, underlining the extreme risk of fire associated with such setups.
Members of the public are being urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that may be linked to drug production or supply. Police say reports can be made by speaking to an officer, calling 101, using the online reporting tool, or contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Meanwhile, Sinn Féin MLA Aoife Finnegan has welcomed confirmation that police located and shut down the cannabis operation.
Police have confirmed that two men have been arrested in connection with the discovery.
“This kind of criminal activity has absolutely no place in our communities,” Ms Finnegan said. “It is unacceptable and puts local people at risk.”
She added: “I want to commend the police for their swift and effective work in identifying and closing down this illegal operation. Keeping our communities safe must always be the priority.”
Investigations remain ongoing.
