Two cannabis factories found after house fire
SMOKE SEEN POURING FROM ROOF, AND THEN TIP-OFF LEADS POLICE TO SECOND PROPERTY
A HOUSE which caught fire yesterday was being used to grow cannabis – as was another just a few doors down, police have confirmed.
Crews from the fire and rescue service were called to the property in New Way Road, Evington, at 10.20am after neighbours noticed smoke pouring from its roof.
When the blaze was eventually put out, a number of cannabis plants were found inside.
Acting on a tip-off, police officers then visited a house nearby and discovered a “large” number of cannabis plants inside that, too.
A number of neighbours said they had heard shouting in the street before they realised the house was on fire.
“We could smell cannabis coming from the house,” said one neighbour, who did not want to be named.
A second said: “Suddenly the roof started to collapse and the fire crews were trying to sort it out. It’s unfortunate that this has happened in our street.”
People gathered in the street – which was closed to traffic during the emergency – and looked on in horror as the flames took hold of the house and its roof began to collapse in on itself.
The fire service said the blaze had ripped through the whole house and that back-up crews had been called to tackle the flames.
Crews used a 9m ladder to tackle the fire from above.
Firefighters remained at the scene into the afternoon to ensure the fire was extinguished and to begin the investigation into the cause.
The second house was taped off by police as officers launched their inquiry into the cannabis cultivation.
A police spokesperson said: “Shortly before 10.30am, officers were called to New Way Road following a report of a fire at a property.
“Officers attended alongside colleagues from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service. The fire was extinguished and a number of cannabis plants were found inside.
“Following information given to officers at the scene, another property in the street was searched under Section 17 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.
“A large number of cannabis plants were found inside. No arrests have been made, however enquiries are continuing.”
Western Power Distribution teams were also called to assist with isolating the electrical supply to the house.
Teams were also seen working with fire and rescue service support crews outside the second house.
No injuries were reported.