Horwich police issue statement after cannabis farm found

The Bolton News reported yesterday how residents were forced to evacuate the properties after a fire broke out in an 'electrical cupboard' at around 2pm.

Scores of cannabis plans were found after the fire was put out.

Emergency services were called to Lee Lane in Horwich, with police remaining on the scene until later this morning.

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "On Wednesday 20 March 2024 at around 2pm, Greater Manchester Police were called to Lee Lane to support Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service with a fire at a property.

"After emergency services made the area safe, a subsequent criminal investigation has been launched into the cultivation of a Class B drug after around 100 plants were found inside.

"Thankfully no serious injuries were reported at the scene and the plants have been disposed.

"No arrests have been made at this time but anyone with information that may help with ongoing enquiries are asked to call 101 quoting incident 1660 of 20/03/2024."

Four fire engines were mobilised to the scene.

One of the  families forced to evacuate after hearing the alarm had only just moved in the block two weeks ago.

The fire had broken out in a different flat from theirs.

David Jankovics and his family were out of the property for more than four hours.

He said: "We live here, we were worried there was a lot of smoke and the fire alarm went off."

And added the family were not allowed back in for several hours

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said: “At just after 2pm Wednesday March 20, four fire engines from Horwich, Bolton North, Wigan, and Hindley fire stations were called to reports of a fire involving an electric cupboard in flats on Lee Lane, Horwich.

“Firefighters used a fire extinguisher to put out the fire and make the scene safe alongside colleagues from Electricity North West."

Electricity North West was also called to the scene.