Two people have been arrested after police discovered a cannabis farm whilst responding to a house fire in Bolton last night.
Emergency services were called to reports of a domestic building fire on Mobberley Road at around 11.15pm on Saturday (June 25). Five fire engines were in attendance, alongside officers from Greater Manchester Police.
Dramatic video footage saw the property’s attic engulfed in smoke and flames as fire crews tackled the blaze. Residents nearby were advised to keep their doors and windows closed.
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Police have now said that a woman in her 40s and a man in his 30s were both arrested for cultivation of cannabis and abstracting electricity. They have since both been released on bail.
Officers said their enquiries have led them to believe there was a cannabis farm in the attic of the property.
A GMP spokesperson said: “At around 11.25pm Saturday 26 June 2023, Greater Manchester Police were called to reports of a fire at an address on Mobberley Road, Bolton. Officers attended to support colleagues from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
“Upon further inspection, officers believe there to be a cannabis farm in the attic of the property. A woman in her 40s and a man in his 30s have been arrested for cultivation of cannabis and abstracting electricity. Both have been released on police bail.
“Incidents such as these can cause significant risk not only to the occupants but to neighbouring residents and properties due to the dangerous practices involved.
“These include high powered heat lamps, chemicals and the bypassing of electrical meters with significant usage of electricity that can cause fires to break out.
“If you know of such practices, please contact Greater Manchester Police or CrimeStoppers.”
Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or via the GMP website. CrimeStoppers can be contacted, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
