Police uncover large-scale cannabis factory in Bedford nightclub

Police have uncovered a cannabis factory worth an estimated £1 million hidden inside a nightclub in Bedford town centre.

A warrant was executed at the Mill Street premises shortly after 10am on Tuesday, leading officers to discover thousands of cannabis plants across multiple floors, including a self-built additional level. Specialist growing equipment was also seized.

The investigation is being led by the force’s Drug Focus Desk, a unit dedicated to tackling high-level drug supply operations.

Detective Inspector Ally Whitworth said:

"We must not underestimate the threat posed by illegal drug production and supply – especially at this scale. These operations are driven by organised criminal networks that fuel violence, exploitation and serious crime, using drug profits to fund further illegal activity. Beyond this criminality, the operations themselves create significant safety hazards and attract antisocial behaviour, with damaging effects throughout our communities. We will keep targeting and dismantling these operations, cutting off criminal profits, and continue to seek the support of our communities and partners."

Police also warned residents to be vigilant for signs a building could be being used as a cannabis factory. These include frequent visitors at unusual hours, blacked-out windows or condensation even in warm weather, bright lights on through the night, tampered electricity meters, and unusually high bills. Strong, sweet odours, noise from fans, and large deliveries of equipment, plant pots, fertilisers, or compost may also indicate illegal activity.

No arrests have yet been confirmed, and the investigation is ongoing.