Cannabis factory found close to the Bank of England as criminals take advantage of London's quiet streets

Undated haUndatedh andout photo issued by the City of London Police of the first ever cannabis factory to be discovered in the area, found close to the Bank of England. Police have said the criminals were taking advantage of the Square Mile's quiet streets.

The City of London’s first ever cannabis factory has been discovered close to the Bank of England as criminals take advantage of the Square Mile’s quiet streets, police have said.

Some 826 plants were found in the basement of a commercial building in Throgmorton Street last week after reports of a strong smell of the Class B drug.

City of London police officers dismantled and destroyed the farm in a raid on Thursday, making two arrests.

Throgmorton Street in the City financial district of London next to the Bank of England Credit: City of London Police

The force said it is the first ever cannabis factory discovered in the City, where streets and offices are quiet as workers stay at home because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pictures released on Wednesday show a set-up complete with lighting and ventilation systems.

Temporary Detective Inspector Andy Spooner, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is the first cannabis factory in the City, no doubt being set up in response to fewer people being out and about during the pandemic who might have noticed any unusual activity.

“However, this demonstrates that City of London Police continues to actively police the Square Mile, bearing down on any crime committed here.

“We have made two arrests and our enquiries continue.”