A man has been arrested on suspicion of cultivating drugs after a police raid in St Albans this morning (Thursday).

About 100 cannabis plants, with an estimated street value of £50,000 were seized during the raid.

Herts Police say they have shut down the cannabis factory after eagle-eyed neighbours reported that something suspicious was going on at a home, near Verulamium Park.

Officers uncovered the drugs den during the operation after residents alerted a Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator to unusual activity in Antonine Gate.

They noticed that the property’s curtains were constantly closed and people had been seen visiting the home but no-one seemed to be living there.

Safer Neighbourhood Team Sergeant Scott Curran said: “This factory was uncovered due to information received by police about suspected drug related activity in the area and this highlights the importance of residents being our eyes and ears in the community.”

When officers from Operation Scorpion and the Operational Support Group forced entry into the property at 10am, they discovered that three bedrooms had been converted for the growing of cannabis plants.

Police are still at the scene and are expected to remain there into the evening.

Sergeant Curran added: “I would urge anyone who has suspicions about drug use in their community to contact us via non-emergency number 101, with details about where it is happening and who is involved, or any other details that could help us to tackle drug crime, so that we can take appropriate action.

“Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could make a big difference.

“You can also report crime anonymously through the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.”

A 54 year old man, from Enfield, has been arrested on suspicion of cultivating drugs and is currently in police custody.

Herts Police say these are possible indicators of a cannabis factory:

• Strong smell of air fresheners

• Lights being left on all day and night

• Curtains constantly drawn or windows blacked out

• A sudden jump or fall in electricity bills

• High humidity in the property

• Strange comings and goings of people