THREE men have appeared in the dock after a huge cannabis factory was discovered at an industrial estate last week.
As reported, hundreds of plants were found in two units at the Sandford Lane estate on Friday.
The find is so large that officers from Dorset Police are using hired lorries to clear the site.
The men appeared at Weymouth Magistrates' Court on Monday.
It is understood allegations of modern slavery have been made, which means the Daily Echo is unable to name the defendants. Victims of slavery are given same lifelong anonymity as victims of sexual offences.
The men, who are aged 22, 25 and 46, have been charged with the production of a class B drug – cannabis.
The 22-year-old has also been charged with possession of controlled drug class B.
All three are of no fixed abode. They have not yet entered pleas and were remanded into custody ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing at Bournemouth Crown Court on January 20.
A fourth man, who is 30, was also arrested. He has since been released without charge, but is detained in relation to unrelated immigration offences.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article