AROUND 500 cannabis plants have been discovered at three locations in Sandwell.

In the last 24 hours, police have unearthed illegal grows which have led to a handful of arrests.

Officers responding to a burglary at an industrial unit off Alma Street, Smethwick at around 5.15am on today (June 14), found 350 cannabis plants.

Police say their enquiries into the incident remain ongoing.

A further 100 plants were discovered at a property in Peveril Way, Great Barr just after 8am today.

As officers arrived a man fled the address but following a brief foot chase, he was arrested on suspicion of producing cannabis.

A 23-year-old man is currently in police custody for questioning.

A further 15 plants were seized from a property in Wolfsbane Drive, Tamebridge last night (June 13) and a 27-year-old was arrested in connection with cultivating Class B drugs.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Police said: “Every cannabis farm we destroy thanks to your help prevents a vicious circle. As the plants won't then end up as street deals, the profits won’t go on to fund other crime, and they won’t ruin lives or pollute our communities.

“Anyone who suspects drugs are being cultivated in their community is urged to contact us via Live Chat on our website.”