A huge cannabis farm was discovered by police in Basildon during a raid.

Officers from the town and the Operational Support Group carried out the operation earlier this week and used specialist cutting equipment to gain access to an industrial unit.

They were being watched by the crooks running the cannabis farm on CCTV who eventually decided to flee.

But they were unable to escape and were arrested on suspicion of cultivation of cannabis.

All the plants found inside were taken away by officers.

The OSG said on Twitter: “We were asked to assist with specialist method of entry to an industrial premises in Basildon.

“Whilst gaining entry we were being watched on CCTV and suspects tried to escape.

“Caught and arrested for cultivation of cannabis.

“Lots of cannabis found and seized.”