HUNDREDS of cannabis plants were seized after police officers executed a raid in Tiptree.

Essex Police attended a property over the weekend after receiving a tip off from a member of the public.

Once inside, the force discovered and seized more than 200 cannabis plants.

Inquiries are ongoing following the discovery and officers investigating have now urged anyone with information to come forward.

A police spokesman said: “After speaking with a member of the public in Tiptree, [officers] had reason to enter a commercial premises whereby they seized over 200 cannabis plants.

“Joint work with UK Power Networks saw the property be made safe before officers could investigate and take the illegal setup down.

“We often see a lot of negative comments about our work around cannabis cultivations however cannabis factories such as this one are set up dangerously to all those around them.

“They remain illegal and as such we will respond, investigate, and prosecute those involved. The cultivations carry a large risk of fire and many other hazards.

“They also often have other crimes connected to them such as people being forced to work against their will, money laundering, and serious violence linked to organised crime groups.”

Reports can be made on the Essex Police website, by calling 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers.