POLICE have released a list of tell-tale signs linked to cannabis production in the hope residents will be able to pass on vital information to help with the fight against criminal gangs.

While one of the most obvious signs will be strong smells from inside a property, there are some more subtle clues that residents can look out for.

This includes frequent but different visitors to a property, often at unusual times.

Gardening equipment being taken into a property such as plant pots, fertiliser, fans and industrial lighting, sealed windows, permanently closed curtains and birds gathering on a roof in cold weather are a few more indicators which can identify cannabis production.

PC Timothy O'Hanlon said: “Individually these activities may seem commonplace, however, together may indicate something more sinister

“Criminal groups involved in the production of cannabis are usually involved in other serious organised crime and use violence, intimidation and exploitation of vulnerable people to keep their illicit businesses going.

“Criminals will often rent residential and industrial properties in the heart of our community.

“The growing of cannabis brings dangers to neighbouring properties because cannabis farms pose a very serious fire risk.

“The people who set up these farms often risk their own safety and that of their neighbours when tampering with the electricity meters to steal electricity.”

Following previous cannabis factory drugs busts, police have discovered a number of hot lamps hooked up to overloaded electricity sockets as well as extensive watering system.

PC O'Hanlon added: “Clearly electricity and water are never a good combination.

“These groups are only interested in making money, and have no regard for the community in which they operate.

“The public can help us stop them from turning houses and flats into potential death traps.

“Nobody wants to live next door to these houses and we would ask that if you believe someone is using a property for this purpose, please tell us so we can take positive action and find those responsible for setting them up.”

Anyone with any information can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555111.