DORSET Police are cracking down on drug-related crime after discovering a cannabis farm with hundreds of plants during a raid on a Bournemouth house.

The force has sent out a strong message saying drug dealing will not be tolerated and urging members of the public to come forward with any information or fears over drug crime.

Statistics showing a drop in the number of incidents involving the production of cannabis in Bournemouth and Poole from 2012 to 2013 have also been welcomed by officers.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: “Dorset Police is working hard to tackle drug-related crime.

“Drug dealing and drug-related offences will not be tolerated and Dorset Police will continue to take positive action on intelligence received and use police powers where there is evidence of drug activity and anti-social behaviour, working closely with our partner agencies.

“We encourage members of the public to come forward with any information or concerns they have regarding drug offences in their community.”

The number of incidents involving the production of cannabis in Bournemouth decreased from 40 reported incidents in 2012 to 14 in 2013. Police also released figures showing that the number of incidents in Poole dropped from 18 during 2012 to 13 incidents the year later.

Officers were seen carrying clear bin bags stuffed full of marijuana plants from a property in Braidley Road on January 15.

Inside the house officers found marijuana plants spread across several rooms, along with specialist lighting and fans for cultivation.

A 33-year-old man from Bournemouth and a woman aged 24 from Loughborough were arrested in relation to the incident and have been released on bail until March.

To report drug-related crimes and related issues of concern you can contact Dorset Police in confidence on 101.