Suspected cannabis estimated to be worth £50,000 has been seized by police officers following the targeted stop of a van at the services in South Mimms.

Officers from the Hertsmere Operation Scorpion, a team that targets burglars, robbers and those involved in drug and vehicle-related crime, stopped the vehicle in Bignells Corner on Friday May 7.

The vehicle and driver were searched and several bags of suspected cannabis were found, officers also seized equipment suspected to be used in the cultivation of cannabis.

It is estimated the suspected Class B drug haul would have potential street value of more than £50,000.

The stop took place following intelligence received by the force that the van had been involved in fly-tipping.

A 36-year-old man from London was arrested for possession with intent to supply class B drugs and being concerned in the cultivation of cannabis.

He has been released under investigation while enquiries are completed.

Detective Inspector Baz Kaila said: “This successful stop by the Operation Scorpion team means that a large quantity of suspected illegal drugs will not make it onto our streets for sale.

“It also shows how valuable intelligence from the public is in tackling crime, every bit of information has the potential to result in a suspected criminal being stopped in their tracks.

“If you believe someone or a vehicle or an address are involved in crime, then you really can make a difference to the community by reporting that information to us.”

Anyone with information has been urged to contact police via non-emergency number 101 or online at herts.police.uk/report.

Anyone with information can report it online at herts.police.uk/report, or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/30719/21.

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