Raids uncover £1m cannabis farms

Cultivation equipment was also seized in the raids

Cannabis worth more than a million pounds has been seized in raids on drugs farms in the North East.

Thousands of plants were discovered and 20 people were arrested at nine properties in Newcastle, Northumberland and Washington.

Northumbria Police said those arrested were suspected of co-ordinating Vietnamese cannabis farmers using rented accommodation.

Cultivation equipment including lights and heaters were also seized.

The total estimated street value of the plants recovered is £1.2m.

'Clear message'

Police said they will now make applications to restrain assets - including a number of rental properties - using powers under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Det Supt Peter Farrell, who led the operation, said: "We want to send a clear message to property owners - if you are knowingly allowing your premises to be used in the cultivation of cannabis we will arrest you and go after your assets.

"The financial cost not only applies to those who willingly rent their properties to criminals.

"Even law abiding landlords who have been duped by cannabis farmers will now face huge repair bills caused not only by cannabis farmers but also by the police raids for which they are legally responsible."