POLICE officers on routine patrol followed their noses and sniffed out a cannabis factory on a Littleport housing estate.The two officers raised the alarm, sending detectives to raid the house on Friar’s Way on Saturday.

POLICE officers on routine patrol followed their noses and sniffed out a cannabis factory on a Littleport housing estate.

The two officers raised the alarm, sending detectives to raid the house on Friar’s Way on Saturday.

More than 400 plants were seized from the house and garage, together with growing equipment.

“The property itself was in its original state but the plants were everywhere, covering every nook and cranny, except the kitchen,” said Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Paul Rogerson, who was first on the scene.

“The electricity supply had been diverted so they were lighting 400 plus plants for free.”

Industrial strength fans and plastic insulation failed to stop the smell getting out as two officers walking the beat smelt the plants from outside the front door.

Detectives spent Friday and Saturday clearing and cleaning the property. They have now destroyed the plants, which have an estimated street value of £120,000.

One person was seen leaving the property, but nobody has been arrested in connection with the incident.

Leading the investigation, Detective Sergeant Chris Wilson said: “The property had all the tell-tale signs of cannabis production, all the windows were covered with blinds and curtains and there was no visible sign of anyone living there.”

“We believe this is not anything to do with the local supply chain in and around Littleport,” said Sgt Rogerson.

“At this level, it is serious and organised national and international crime, but poses no risk to the public. It was police officers on the beat who discovered the factory and in these situations we rely on community members to get in touch with us if they see, or smell anything suspicious.”

INFO: Detective Sergeant Wilson can be contacted on 0845 456 456 4 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.