POLICE have seized cannabis plants worth a combined total of over £8.5 million across the country since the turn of the year - including last weekend's £3.6 million find in Greenock.

The force says that this is sending a clear message to criminals that drugs have no place in any of our communities. 

As well as Greenock, this month’s police activity took place Dundee, Dumfries, Ayrshire, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Aberdeen, Inverness and Shetland.

Three men charged in connection with the Greenock cannabis cultivation, Gledian Daci, 25, Antonjo Selami, 37, and Aurel Xhoka, 32, have been remanded in custody after appearing at the town's sheriff court yesterday.

Detective Superintendent Craig Willison from Police Scotland’s Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit said: “This year we have already seen some very significant recoveries across the country which demonstrates that no community is safe from the harm caused by illegal drugs.

“Information and support from members of the public is vital to our work and I would encourage anyone with concerns about drugs activity in their area to contact Police Scotland on 101. Alternatively you can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”