An XL bully dog has been seized by police and a member of an organised crime gang has been arrested after police officers uncovered a drug den in Durham. 

Over the weekend, officers from the Framwellgate Moor and Meadowfield Neighbourhood Team went to investigate some strange goings-on at a house in Brandon following reports of anti-social behaviour from residents.

After arriving at the property, they uncovered wall-to-wall cannabis plants growing in the bedrooms of the property, an American XL Bully dog in the kitchen and a bypassed electricity supply so dangerous that the whole house could have gone up in a puff of green smoke, according to officers.

During the drug raid, they also located and arrested a man who is believed to belong to an organised crime gang who are involved with setting up illegal cannabis grows throughout the country.

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The officers dismantled the cannabis grow and 13 sacks full of cannabis were destroyed, the electrics have been made safe and the police say that the dog has been taken to be cared for professionally.

A spokesperson for Durham Police added: "We understand that some people support the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes but unfortunately organised crime gangs exploit these people and make as much money as they can to fund other Serious organised crime.

"If you suspect illegal dangerous activity is taking place at a location near you please either make contact with your local neighbourhood team or ring 101 and speak with one of our officers."