1. ITV Report

Homes evacuated after fire at suspected cannabis farm

A number of homes in Salford have been evacuated after a fire at a suspected cannabis farm this morning.

Shortly before 5.25am, police were called by the fire service regarding a fire at a house on Baltic Street. Emergency services attended and discovered three terrace house lofts ablaze.

A number of people left their homes while emergency services dealt with the incident. The fire is now extinguished but people have not yet been allowed back into their homes.

The cause of the fire is now being investigated jointly by police and the fire service.

A small cannabis farm was discovered in one of the terraced houses. This house is almost completely destroyed while two adjacent lofts have been damaged.

A 28-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of production of cannabis and is being questioned by police.

Detective Sergeant Rachel Smith, of Salford CID, said: "This incident once again demonstrates that reckless danger inherent in producing cannabis.

"This cannabis farm has not only being producing illegal drugs but it has put nearby people in potential danger.

"Thankfully, no-one has been injured and the fire was quickly contained and extinguished, but the disruption caused was considerable.

"People had to leave their homes as a precaution and nearby roads were closed. We expect the residents to return home later this morning.

"The production of cannabis is a blight on our communities and I would always encourage anyone with suspicions about cannabis farms to get in touch with the police immediately."
