ONE OF the largest cannabis factories ever found in Southampton has been dismantled.

The factory in Millbank Street was raided by officers on Friday, October 21, who described it as an "extensive" drug production.

Over 2,000 plants - worth at least £140,000 - were found during the operation and seized. 

It will now be destroyed.

Daily Echo: The cannabis factory busted by policeThe cannabis factory busted by police (Image: Hampshire police)

Superintendent Phil Lamb said: "This factory is one of the largest found in the city and by dismantling it, we have disrupted the organised crime groups that exploit and cause harm across our communities.

READ MORE: Shocking footage shows moment £140,000 cannabis factory is raided by police

"Some might say cannabis is only a bit of drugs, but what production of this scale brings is exploitation of adults and children, serious violence, weapons and firearms."

Three men have since pleaded guilty to drug production offences.

On Monday, at Southampton Magistrates’ Court, Rezart Selami, 29, Alfred Mamoci, 35, and Selami Lugja, 31, all pleaded guilty to producing a controlled drug of class B - cannabis.

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They have been remanded in custody to appear at Southampton Crown Court on November 15.

Supt Lamb added: "If you think drug production is happening in your neighbourhood, please report it so we can carry on making our city a safer place to live."

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