A MAN has been arrested and charged after police busted a large cannabis farm.

Essex Police’s South Disruptor team executed an early morning warrant at an address in Basildon yesterday.

Officers uncovered a large cannabis factory with numerous plants in full bloom, ready to be harvested, with the cannabis then sold on the streets.

Images taken by police officers at the scene show complex equipment such as lights, dehumidifiers, hydroponic systems and heaters, used to help the cannabis grow.

Cannabis plants require at least 13 hours of light a day. High-powered industrial lamps are often used, which produce significant heat.

In a post on Facebook, Essex Police said a man who had been wanted for 12 months was arrested at the scene and later charged and remanded for production of cannabis.

Police say he will appear at court for previous charges in due course.

Essex Police has been contacted for further details.