Drugs found growing in church hall

Officers acting on a tip-off carried out a raid on the building opposite St Matthew’s Church in Carbottom Road, Wibsey, and discovered about 2,000 plants with an estimated street value of more than £500,000.

Detective Inspector Neil Benstead, of Bradford District Drugs team, described the seizure as “significant”.

The swoop was carried out by officers and helped by the district drugs team who have now taken on the investigation.

Ward Councillor Ralph Berry said of the seizure: “This building was a former church hall which was sold off by the Church to private individuals some time ago. I used to work very close to there. I am very glad to hear that such a big raid has been carried out and that such a significant reduction in supply has been made. I would like to congratulate the police on this operation. I am very concerned about illegal drugs, particularly if they are discovered in my ward.”

Yesterday Bradford magistrates remanded En Sheng Chen, 24, of no fixed address, in custody for seven days in connection with the seizure.

Chen, who has long black hair, appeared in the dock wearing a zip-up khaki jacket.

He was charged with producing cannabis plants and being in possession of an offensive weapon.

He listened to the proceedings through an interpreter.

No application was made for bail. A committal hearing has been scheduled for Bradford Crown Court on July 25.

A 16-year-old girl, who is linked to the case also appeared before magistrates. The girl, who cannot be named because of her age, was remanded into local authority care.

Det Insp Benstead said the raid sent out a clear message that police teams were “as pro-active as ever” and were continuing to take large quantities of drugs from Bradford streets.

He said: “We know there are more cannabis factories out there and we would urge anyone who knows anything about the production or supply of drugs to contact Crimestoppers on Dob-in-a-dealer in confidence on 0800 55 111.”