A POLICE drugs bust uncovered more than £25,000 worth of cannabis plants.

Officers raided a three bedroom terraced house, in Chittock Mead, Basildon, and discovered 45 plants.

More than £4,000 of damage had been caused to the rented property as dealers converted bedrooms into growing rooms.

Officers discovered a sophisticated ventilation system, lighting and hydroponics set up.

The dealers had also bypassed the electricity meter and siphoned around £3,500 of electricity to power equipment.

A 28-year-old man, a tenant of the address, was arrested for production of cannabis and causing criminal damage.

He has been bailed pending further inquires.

Basildon police were granted a search warrant for the raid after a tip-off from the local community.

Sgt Ben Woollard, from Pitsea police station, said: “Tackling drug misuse and supply is a priority for Essex Police.

“We are proactive in our efforts to disrupt the supply of drugs into our communities in order to reduce harm and bring offenders to justice.

“The public are a vital tool in fighting crime and can help by providing us with information relating to any illegal activity within our communities.

“Residents can call the police on 101 or anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

The plants and the equipment were seized at around 10.30am on Thursday, and will be destroyed.