Police have raided a cannabis factory containing about 400 plants at Lyng, near Dereham.Officers went into the three bedroom bungalow in Duffield Crescent at 9.

Police have raided a cannabis factory containing about 400 plants at Lyng, near Dereham.

Officers went into the three bedroom home in Duffield Crescent at 9.45am today following a report of suspicious activity.

One man, believed to be Vietnamese, fled the building as police entered and has so far evaded capture despite a large scale search involving Norfolk Police helicopter.

Inside the home police found a sophisticated cannabis production operation with more than 200 mature cannabis plants, a further 200 seedlings and hydroponic and lighting equipment used for its cultivation.

Police and crime scene investigators have spent the day at the property examining the scene.

Sgt Colin Barratt, based at Dereham Police Station, attended the scene.

“This is a significant find in terms of cannabis production in Norfolk. Every room in this house has been turned into a production area,” he said.

“There has been a forensic examination of the scene and we've found personal items at the property which will help inform the investigation. The cannabis plants will be removed and destroyed.”

Police were alerted by a member of the public who was suspicious of activity at the property and had noticed that the curtains were often drawn.

Det Chief Inspector Neil Firm said: “Cannabis production is a serious offence and out work to combat this issue will remain on-going.

“We urge the public to remain though for cannabis cultivation in their community. Should a member of the public grow suspicious of a property, they shouldn't approach the occupiers, but call Norfolk Police or Crimestoppers.”

Warning signs that people should look out for in a cannabis factory are:

t The curtains are constantly closed.

t There is a lot of noise when someone moves into a property, but afterwards no-one seems to be living there.

t There is a strange smell.

t Paper is put up inside the windows.

t There is excess heat.

t There is condensation on the windows or even the brick work of the house.

Anybody who suspects illegal drugs activity should contact Norfolk Police on 0845 4564567 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.