An early morning break-in at a flat led police to discover a cannabis factory.

Knives were also seized when a group forced their way inside the property.

The incident was reported at 3.57am on Sunday and police attended the address in Castle Road, Chatham.

Witnesses said a number of people were seen entering the building and leaving the scene in a vehicle.

Officers attending after the call then found a cannabis cultivation and recovered two blades – reportedly a machete and a knife – near the scene.

An investigation and manhunt for the suspects has now been launched and officers say they are keen to hear from anyone who might have information.

The suspects are yet to be located following an extensive search, a police spokesman said.

House-to-house inquiries have taken place and a review of CCTV and forensic evidence have been carried out.

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 01795 419119, quoting reference 46/5453/22 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form on their website.