Four arrests after 500 cannabis plants found growing in centre of Colchester

Officers from Essex Police were called to an address in High Street at about 3.10pm yesterday, Tuesday, February 1.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "Two men aged 36 and 22, were initially arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis.

The four men who have been arrested are still in custody (Image: Essex Police)

"A further two men, aged 58 and 29, were later arrested close by and all four remain in custody.

"Our enquiries are ongoing and there is likely to remain a police presence in the area in the coming days.

"At this stage we expect the value of the plants to be very significant."

Chief inspector Rob Huddleston, Colchester district commander, said: “Specialist officers will remain at the scene today as we gather evidence to identify all those involved in this cultivation.

A police presence is expected to remain in place throughout the whole of today (Image: Essex Police)

“Of course, there will be some concern among our community after this discovery, but I know this investigation is moving along quickly.

"Four people have been arrested and we are also following several other lines of enquiry.

“The trade in illegal drugs is inextricably linked to violence and the proceeds from drugs funds more criminal activity which leads to fear and misery for individuals and communities.

"Stopping the people behind the growth and sale of cannabis is vital in tackling violent crime and helps keep our community safe.”

Anyone with any information should contact Essex Police quoting the incident 628 of February 1.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.

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