POLICE STEP UP ATTACK ON CANNABIS FACTORIES

DCI Glenn Jones, of Sussex Police Major Crime and Drug Unit, said: 'Cannabis production is rightly regarded by the courts as a serious offence.

'People involved in cannabis production on a commercial scale have the potential to make a lot of profit which is often used to fund other forms of serious criminality.

'This is why Sussex Police is supporting the national Operation Keymer.

'We are not prepared to discuss specific operations which have yet to take place.

"However, Sussex Police will actively target any commercial production of cannabis and seek to use the powers of the Proceeds of Crime Act to confiscate any ill gotten gains.

'Anyone with information about cannabis production in their neighbourhoods is asked to call Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or, if they don't want to leave their name, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where they may qualify for a cash reward.'

Premises where cannabis production has been disrupted include a house at Newhaven (300 plants) and a flat at Seaford (17 plants).