MORE than 350 cannabis plants were seized as officers raided two properties in Poole.

The ‘substantial’ cannabis factory, in two properties off Ashley Road, Parkstone, was found by officers from the Poole Neighbourhood Policing Team and the Roads Policing Team.

The operation was ‘momentous’, with ‘well over’ 350 plants seized from the adjoining properties, police said.

Bournemouth Echo:

A spokesperson for Poole Police said: “This positive result, coupled with Bournemouth East's cannabis factory discovery earlier this week shows how committed Dorset Police are at disrupting the supply of drugs - The number one priority for the public (via priority surveys).

“Please continue to report any concerns regarding drug activity in your area as this assists us in locating and targeting properties.”

The county force reminded residents of the signs to spot if a property is being used to cultivate drugs.

These are:

- A powerful distinctive sweet, sickly aroma

- Frequent visitors throughout the day and night

- Blacked out windows, or vents sealed/blocked to prevent the heat and smell of cannabis from inside the property escaping

- Chinks of bright light throughout the night

- In winter, snow melting unusually quickly on the roof

- High levels of condensation on windows

- Noise from fans

- Large amounts of rubbish, especially compost bags

- Electricity meter being tampered with/altered and new cabling, sometimes leading to street lighting.

Bournemouth Echo:

The spokesperson for the force added: “You can report intelligence directly to us by visiting https://orlo.uk/wXadc and clicking on the ‘Report your intelligence’ button. You can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website. If a crime is in progress or life is in danger, dial 999.”