A man from Dover is among 69 people who have been arrested during a day of action co-ordinated by the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate.

Officers from divisions across the whole of Kent and Essex executed a series of warrants and planned operations targeting those involved in a wide variety of crimes from burglary and other theft-related offences including vehicle and metal theft, handling stolen goods, and drug supply at all levels from street dealers to suppliers.

There were 31 arrests in Kent including a 48-year-old man from Dover for possession of drugs with intent to supply.

An underground factory believed to contain cannabis plants was discovered in a rural location near Canterbury during the operation.

The factory is approximately 10 feet underground where it appears a large hole has been dug and several shipping containers placed into the hole and covered over with soil. These containers appear to have been accessed from a trapdoor in the floor of a container above ground and ladder.

The containers have allegedly been used as "rooms" to grow what appears to be cannabis plants in. Officers found approximately 100 plants in varying stages of growth.

Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Wilson, who leads the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: "I’d like to thank colleagues on both sides of the water who have done a sterling job on what has been a complex operation.

"The results speak for themselves. Today’s activity will undoubtedly make our communities safer, and more enjoyable places to be. Anyone who thinks it is acceptable to make life miserable for others by behaving illegally should expect to be brought to justice."