POLICE have uncovered a large cannabis factory in Hampshire.

Officers undercovered the large operatiion during a raid at an address in Odiham.

Poilce say that as many as 180 cannabis plants werer found at the property following the search at the property in Potbridge at around 4pm on Tuesday (November 17).

No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.

Police also say that the production would have needed so much electricity to function that it would have created a fire risk to neighbouring properties.

A statement from Hampshire Police said: "We know that a lot people will think it’s just a bit of cannabis - but we want to stress that any production of drugs is linked to hidden harm.

"Large scale operations like this are often run by organised crime gangs.

"Those gangs are likely to engage in very serious violence involving weapons, such as firearms.

"They may also take advantage of vulnerable people, exploiting them or making them work in servitude.

"The electrical requirement to grow this many plants is also really dangerous and can be a huge fire risk, putting neighbouring properties, and lives in danger.

"It is not just a bit of cannabis, it’s linked to serious criminality.

"That’s why we are really keen to hear from people who suspect there is cannabis cultivation or drug related activity going on their neighbourhood."

"Every call you make to us is logged and helps us build up an intelligence picture about what might be happening in your community. This allows us to take action and prevent your neighbourhoods from harm."

Police said anyone who can help in the investigation should call 101 or go to www.hampshire.police.uk and report online.

Witnesses can also ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.