Around 1,000 cannabis plants were found in an empty shop unit.

Police were called shortly after 10.30pm yesterday, Tuesday, October 9, with reports a man had been seen acting suspiciously at the building in the Laindon Centre off High Road, Laindon.

Officers found a cannabis factory had been set up inside and estimate there were around 1,000 plants.

Acting Chief Insp Steven Parry said: “This was a sophisticated set up and the street value of the drugs would have been significant.

“We carried out a search of the premises and were unable to find anyone, but our enquiries to find those responsible for this cannabis factory are ongoing.

“We’re keen to hear from anybody who has seen anyone acting suspiciously in that area over recent weeks or has any information about those responsible.”

Contact Basildon Police Station on 101 quoting incident number 1354 of October 9.

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org