A MAN and a woman were arrested yesterday after a police raid in which officers found what they believe to be nearly 30 cannabis plants.

Police said they had carried out the operation, in Fletcher Street, Nelson, after information from the public which alleged the property was being used for cannabis growing.

A dozen officers executed a search warrant just after 9am yesterday as part of the force's Operation Nimrod drugs crackdown.

Two people were arrested for drug supplying offences. Between 20 and 30 plants, suspected to be cannabis plants, were found in the property.

Inspector Paul Robinson said: "Officers located a basement area within which a significant amount of hydroponic cultivation equipment was found along with a number of plants at various stages in growth.

"The plants are so far believed to be cannabis."

He added: "This has been an intelligence-led operation thanks to a great deal of support from the local community.

"This operation demonstrates our commitment to making a difference to people in the area. We have asked the public to work with us. We have canvassed their opinion and listened to the voice of the community.

"The public has sent us a very clear message that they do not want people who illegally deal in drugs operating in their community."

A male and female, both in their 50s from Fletcher Street, were being questioned by detectives yesterday.

Anybody with information about the incident or anybody with information about drug dealing should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.