A massive cannabis growing operation worth three-quarters of a million pounds was discovered in Rotherham after local residents reported persistent power cuts and unusual odours to authorities.
The illicit enterprise, one of South Yorkshire’s largest cannabis raids, was dismantled following a coordinated effort between police and National Powergrid that began with community tip-offs in 2021. Officers seized 761 plants valued at approximately £1,000 each from a disused commercial warehouse on Thames Street.
The discovery forms part of Operation Grow, which aims to eliminate illegal cannabis production and supply in Rotherham and has resulted in seizures worth tens of millions of pounds since its launch. South Yorkshire Police confirmed that cannabis valued at more than £17 million was confiscated under the operation during 2024 alone.
Eight officers from Rotherham Central Neighbouring Policing Team executed a warrant at the premises on Friday 30 January, uncovering a sophisticated multi-floor growing facility. The warehouse had been converted into a network of interconnected rooms, with bricks removed from walls to create tunnels allowing easy movement between chambers packed with cannabis plants.
New footage released by police shows officers navigating the complex setup, peeling back plastic curtains to reveal multiple rows of verdant plants before moving through the maze-like structure connecting various cultivation areas across several floors.
No individuals were present during the raid and no arrests have been made, with enquiries ongoing. The illegal operation had bypassed electricity supplies, creating significant fire and safety hazards for neighbouring properties and businesses in the area.
Inspector John Crapper of Rotherham Central NPT emphasized the importance of dismantling such facilities due to their connections to organized criminal networks. He stated it was “crucial” these operations are discovered, noting: “Not only do they fund illegal activities but cannabis grows can significantly impact the quality of life for residents and nearby businesses.”
The inspector highlighted the dangers posed by electricity bypass systems commonly used in such enterprises, which present “serious risk for neighbouring properties.” He urged members of the public to report any concerns to police.
The successful raid demonstrates the effectiveness of community reporting in identifying illegal operations. Persistent unexplained power outages combined with unusual smells prompted both police and utility providers to investigate, leading to the operation’s launch four years ago.
The discovery occurred amid broader law enforcement action against organized crime across England. More than 300 Metropolitan Police officers recently stormed 15 properties across Mitcham in South London, arresting 23 suspects believed linked to notorious drug kingpins. That operation resulted in seizures of Class A drugs, substantial cash amounts, firearms and a samurai sword, with charges including drug supply, firearms possession, offensive weapons possession, criminal property possession and modern-day slavery.
The Met reported seizing 3,750 guns and weapons in 2025 whilst disrupting organized crime groups more than 21,000 times during the same year.
Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, cultivating cannabis carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment. South Yorkshire Police continue investigating the Rotherham warehouse operation whilst pursuing additional leads generated by the raid.
Authorities encourage residents experiencing unexplained power issues or detecting suspicious odours to contact police, as such reports have proven instrumental in uncovering large-scale illegal operations. Operation Grow continues targeting cannabis production facilities across the region.
