New North West campaign launched highlighting serious crimes and dangers associated with cannabis cultivation

We've launched a new initiative to increase reports on large scale cannabis cultivation by organised criminal gangs in the North West.

Last year, our charity received over 35,000 pieces of information on crime in the North West, and saw a significant rise in information on cannabis cultivation and associated crimes such as illegal immigration, modern slavery, violence and exploitation.

Cannabis farms can range in size from just part of a room to a whole house, or a commercial property such as a warehouse. The electricity source is often tampered with, causing a significant fire risk.

Many of those who are forced to tend the crop are from South East Asia and Eastern Europe, and are subjected to appalling treatment and terrible living conditions.

Crimestoppers is appealing for information from landlords, letting agents and the wider public to report any suspicious activity.

There are certain clues that your neighbour could be growing cannabis:

• There’s a pungent smell
• High levels of condensation on the windows, even in the warmer months
• Constantly covered or blacked-out windows
• A high number of large items being taken in or out
• A constant buzz of ventilation
• Strong, constant lighting day and night
• Unsociable comings and goings

Do you have information about cannabis cultivation, or any other crime? You can tell us and remain 100% anonymous - guaranteed. No one will ever know that you got in touch with us - except you. Call free on 0800 555 111 or fill in our online form, here on our website:

Give information anonymously
 

Discover more about cannabis cultivation, and the dangers & harms associated with it:

Find out more

“Often those who are forced to work in these farms are subjected to appalling conditions and treatment. The criminals who are setting up these grows do not care about the dangers to those who live nearby or those that are forced to work there.”

“Every piece of information given to Crimestoppers is vital in building the intelligence picture of those who are involved in serious organised criminal activity, and in helping to reduce crime and save lives.”
 
“In 36 years, we have never revealed the identity of anyone who has contacted us by phone or online - you will always remain anonymous.”

“Information from the public is vital in keeping our communities safe and reducing crime.”

Gary Murray, Crimestoppers North West Regional Manager

We take information in over 150 different languages, 365 days of the year, 24/7, via our UK-based Contact Centre on 0800 555 111, or use our safe and secure online form here on our website:

Give information anonymously
 
In an emergency, or if you see a crime taking place, call the police on 999 or 101.  
 
Please note: Computer IP addresses are never traced, and no-one will ever know you contacted Crimestoppers. For telephone calls, there is no caller line display, no 1471 facility and calls have never been traced.

12 February 2025