Op Ohio latest: Police swoop on drug factory in Plaistow

A cannabis factory has been shut down in the latest Operation Ohio action in Newham.

The factory with more than 400 growing plants was discovered in Barking Road, Plaistow, when police swooped.

Earlier officers had obtained a warrant to search the property.

It was the second day of the joint initiative between the Metropolitan Police and Newham Council’s enforcement team.

A Town Hall spokesman said that a drug gang had converted the rented flat and used a sophisticated system of heat lamps to cultivate the cannabis plants.

Also seized was a dog left by the gang to protect the premises.

Further investigation is now under way.

The raid was part of a raft of enforcement activity over 48 hours aimed at improving the local neighbourhood.

This included ordering 226 homeowners to clear front gardens, 39 foreign vehicles being logged with the DVLA and one premises being closed for food safety breaches.

Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales, said this latest joint enforcement operation “has once again demonstrated our determination to make Newham a better borough for everyone.”

He continued: “We make no apology for getting tough on crime and anti-social behaviour. Residents have made clear they want tackling crime to be the top priority and we’ve listened.

“Why should law-abiding citizens put up with litter, dogs not on leads or untaxed cars in their neighbourhood? It’s not right.”

Investigations into other offences - fly-posting, graffiti and other anti-social behaviour continue.