A MASSIVE drug den has been uncovered in Cumnock.

Cannabis plants worth almost half a million pounds were discovered at in industrial estate just off Ayr road.

Police raided the warehouse on Tuesday, July 16 seizing a ‘significant’ amount of marijuana with a street value of around £450,000.

The drug farm had been disguised as a warehouse just round the corner from Cumnock Police Station.

Locals were left shocked as they watched detectives swarm the area as men ran from the building.

They reported several workers fleeing the area as cops ransacked the warehouse.

It is understood there could have been links to human trafficking in the area.

One witness said: “I just saw people running and the police go into the place.

“I saw a few guys run away out the building when they showed up.”

Another local said: “I heard the commotion and everyone started going outside to see.

“When I looked all I saw was lots of police at the building.”

Police have launched an investigation into the cannabis farm as enquires continue.

They are desperately appealing to the community for more information about the incident.

East Ayrshire Area Commander, Chief Inspector Gillian Docherty, said: “Tackling drug supply is a key priority in East Ayrshire and this is a significant seizure.

“We are totally committed to disrupting and identifying drug dealers in our communities and will continue to work hard every day and be pro-active in our efforts.

“I wish to thank the community for their vigilance and vital support to help tackle these issues.”

Constable Shawnie McGeechan, Ayrshire Pro-active Unit, said: “We have taken a significant amount of cannabis plants out of the community and will continue our investigation to establish exactly who is responsible for the production of them.

“We would encourage anyone with any information to get in touch, you may have seen something in the area that may have seemed insignificant at the time, but now may be relevant.

“Drugs cause real devastation to communities and families and Police Scotland will target anyone involved in drugs and the criminality that surrounds it.

“Enquiry is ongoing to bring the culprits before the courts.”

Anyone with any information should contact Police via 101, quoting incident number 0877 of Tuesday, July 16.

Alternatively, you can contact CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 where information can be given in confidence.