Man arrested after firefighters discover cannabis factory in Newry blaze

By Q Radio News

A suspected cannabis factory has been uncovered following a fire in Newry. 

The blaze broke out in a large shed on the Derrywilligan Road just after 5.30pm yesterday. 

A 48-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of cultivating around 800 plants and a number of other drug related offences. 

Detectives are investigating the circumstances of the fire. 

“The blaze, at a large shed on the Derrywilligan Road, was reported to police at 5.40pm,” a PSNI spokesperson said. 

“Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service personnel attended and extinguished the fire which had caused substantial damage to the shed.

“The shed was searched and a suspected cannabis factory was discovered and approximately 800 suspected cannabis plants.

“A 48-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis and other drug related offences. 

“The man remains in custody at this time.”

Detective Sergeant McCarragher said: “Enquiries into this incident are ongoing and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

“We are appealing for anyone with information and who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area or have information about this incident to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 1529 01/08/21."