An overnight break-in was the catalyst for the discovery of two cannabis factories just streets apart.

Eastern Daily Press: Bags of cannabis seized by police in Great Yarmouth. Picture: David HannantBags of cannabis seized by police in Great Yarmouth. Picture: David Hannant (Image: Archant)

At 3.41am on Thursday, police were alerted to a burglary on Granville Road in Cobholm, Great Yarmouth, after a neighbour saw suspects breaking in to a home.

However, when police officers arrived at the scene and searched the property, they discovered it was being used as a cannabis factory, containing 150 plants.

The street value of the plants seized is unclear, however there were enough plants to fill 20 large police evidence bags.

A police spokesman said: 'On arrival, several men made off from the location. A search of the property revealed a cannabis farm being cultivated inside.'

The property search then led officers to a second factory on Century Road, which runs directly parallel to Granville Road. While no plants were seized from this location, a similar set-up was discovered.

A police spokesman added: 'The fire brigade was called to pump out and dispose of water found in large trays at the second factory.'

One appliance from Gorleston attended.

Three men were later detained on suspicion of cultivating cannabis and aggravated burglary - a man in his 20s from Great Yarmouth, a man in his 30s from Great Yarmouth and a man in his 20s from Surrey.

All three have since been released from custody but remain under investigation while enquiries continue.

Chief inspector Nathan Clark said: 'We are dedicated in the fight against drugs on our streets and will do everything within our power to bring offenders to justice. We believe more people may be linked with these crimes and are continuing to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the incident.'

Witnesses reported a heavy police presence in the area throughout the day, with forensic examinations carried out before officers seized the plants later in the day.

Chief Insp Clark added: 'I would urge members of the public to call us if they notice any suspicious activity in their neighbourhood or have any information about drug dealing in town.'

Anybody with information regarding the incident should contact Great Yarmouth police on 101.