Police have raided a cannabis farm in a suburban north London house in a high-tech operation using thermal imaging cameras mounted on a drone.
More than 150 plants over 6ft high were found at the property in Parade Street, Hendon.
After a tip off officers used a drone with thermal imaging which showed one building glowing white among a dark row of terraced houses.
Detectives are hunting those who ran the farm and when they raided the property there were no suspects on the scene.
Sergeant Darren Brain, who leads a local team of officers in Hendon, said: “We are dedicated to tackling the issues that matter most to residents. People have told us they are worried about the impact drug dealing has on the local area, so we will continue to prioritise stamping it out.
“Gangs involved in dealing drugs regularly exploit the most vulnerable in society and cause them significant harm and upset. I would encourage anyone with information or suspicions about drug activity to contact us.
“Police Community Support Officers from my team have spoken to local residents and businesses to reassure them following the warrant. If you see us out and about, please come over and speak to us.
“The easiest way to report crime quickly is via our website or anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers. In an emergency, always call 999.”
Tell-tale signs to look out for if you think there is a cannabis factory near you are constant lighting day and night and an electricity meter that has been tampered with. Sometimes criminals wire up the box so they do not pay for the excessive power they consume to heat and light their drug operation.
