POLICE seized £40,000 worth of cannabis plants in a raid on a house in Pontypool. Officers described the set- up as a "mini factory", with a a hi-tech growing operation involving sophisticated equipment.

Thirty-eight cannabis plants were removed when officers raided an address in Beechwood Walk, Trevethin.

Inspector Chris Dodd said: "This is the second such seizure in the Trevethin area in the last two months, which is of particular concern to me.

"The criminals who peddle these drugs are now the focus of our attention." A 36-year-old local man was arrested and released on police bail, pending the results of tests on the seized plants.

In December around £20,000 worth of cannabis along with growing equipment was seized during a raid on a property in Tenison Road, St Cadoc's. Two people were arrested and bailed pending charges.

PICTURED: Detective Constable Bob Davies with a 'forest' of cannabis plants.