OFFICERS from a neighbourhood policing team discovered a cannabis farm with an estimated value of £500,000 just off Carlisle's high street. 

Carlisle's Neighbourhood Policing Team discovered the cannabis farm on West Tower Street, Carlisle, on January 26. 

The officers were acting upon a report of suspicious activity provided by a member of the public. 

Subsequently, three males were arrested at the scene and are still in police custody. 

A spokesperson from Cumbria Constabulary said: "This kind of criminality is closely linked to Organised Crime, People trafficking and Modern Day Slavery which has a negative impact on the lives of those involved and the wider community. 

"We ask that anyone with information regarding similar activity to report your suspicions. Reports can be made on our non emergency number 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111," they said. 

The discovery follows after Cumbria Police reported seizures of drugs worth an estimated street value of around £4m and a further suspected illegally-held cash worth £1.5m in 2022 alone. 

Following the unveiling of last year's seizures, Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “I am delighted to be able to share this snapshot of police activity, which is going on every day, as it is so important that we all understand the nature of policing activity across the county. 

“So often people raise with me that they do not see enough of the police, this report demonstrates however, that much of the work of the police tackling serious crime and dangerous criminals is not seen or obviously visible.  The important thing is that we are dealing with criminals who target the vulnerable and I am pleased to see how effective the constabulary is in bringing them to justice.

“Drug crimes and online crimes are two of the priorities that are raised with me continuously therefore I hope this provides reassurance to the public that Cumbria Constabulary are doing everything within their power to reduce these crime priorities in Cumbria.

“This is a clear warning to anyone who is committing crime in Cumbria: you will be caught and face the consequences.

“The police work with multiple partners across the county but the most important partner they have in preventing and catching criminals is the public, we all have a part to play. I would urge anyone who sees anything suspicious to report it to the Police on 101 or 999 in emergencies.

“Together we can make Cumbria a safer place to live, work and visit," he said. 

READ MORE: Police seize millions in drugs and cash