A man who built a cannabis factory in his basement could be deported after he has served a prison sentence.

Hieu Nguyen, of Evelyn Avenue, Colindale, was sentenced to 12 years in jail for production of cannabis and abstracting electricity last Tuesday.

Detectives stormed his home on December 3 and discovered a large-scale cannabis factory with more than 200 plants filling four rooms.

The 47-year-old was arrested at the scene and later charged, before being remanded in custody.

PC Roisin Daly, who was in charge of the search said: “We seized over 200 cannabis plants from the execution of this warrant, many of which were at an advanced stage of growth.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank residents regarding this matter and also to advise landlords to remain vigilant as it is common for rental properties to be used for this type of crime.”