Man charged in connection with cannabis farm in Plumbridge

by Gráinne Connolly

Last Thursday, a cannabis farm near Plumbridge was uncovered and dismantled by Tactical Support Group officers, working alongside the local Neighbourhood Policing Team. 

A substantial amount of plants in various stages of growth were seized and destroyed. 

It's understood there were dozens of plants set up in growing rooms in the house, lined with foil sheets. 

However, the police haven't confirmed an exact number. 

A sophisticated ventilation system, lamps and fans were also removed from the premises and destroyed. 

Strabane PSNI released images of the cannabis and the system dismantled: 

They've also stated: 

"When conducting searches of this natures, we can never leave anything behind. Everything must be removed and destroyed and this can take several days to complete."

A 27 year old, Lithuanian man has since been charged in connection to the cannabis factory. 

It's understood that it was set up in a rural bungalow surrounded by farm buildings, which was leased out by a local farmer. 

The man appeared before Omagh Magistrates court on Saturday (8th April) and was charged with 9 offences. 

Among them were charges for possessing class B drugs, with intent to supply them; and for dishonestly using electricity and causing criminal damage to the property, by damaging electric cables and ceilings. 

The man is due to appear at Strabane Magistrates Court today via live video link.