Two brothers from London, Aurel and Xheni Ukcenaj, have been sentenced to prison following their involvement in a violent attack and a cannabis production operation in Southend, Essex. The incident, which occurred on October 11, 2022, led to two teenage boys sustaining serious injuries.
Aurel Ukcenaj, 32, from Marischal Road in Lewisham, and Xheni Ukcenaj, 27, from Chase Side in Enfield, admitted to causing grievous bodily harm with intent and producing cannabis. The attack happened shortly before 4.25 am when Essex Police were called to York Road in Southend due to reports of a disturbance.
Upon arrival, officers found one teenage boy with critical injuries and another with leg injuries. Both victims were rushed to the hospital and have since recovered.
The investigation by the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate revealed that the violence stemmed from a dispute between two groups. The Ukcenaj brothers were part of an organized crime group in charge of a large cannabis grow operation, involving over 100 plants, in a property in the area.
During the confrontation, the two teenage victims attempted to flee but were violently injured by the suspects. Aurel Ukcenaj was also found to have stabbed one of the victims three times while the victim was on the ground.
The three men, including the Ukcenaj brothers and Elton Vata from Westcliff, were initially charged with cannabis production. They pleaded guilty at Basildon Crown Court on November 7, with the plea accepted jointly by Essex Police and the Crown Prosecution Service.
On November 10, Xheni Ukcenaj was sentenced to 15 years in prison, with eligibility for release after serving ten years. Aurel Ukcenaj received a 12-year sentence and will serve eight years before possible release.
Detective Inspector Lydia George, who led the investigation, commented on the case, emphasizing the extreme violence initiated by the Ukcenaj brothers. She highlighted the dangerous nature of drug supply involvement and the harm caused by the cultivation and distribution of illegal drugs. George described the groups involved as intimidating, reckless, and ruthless, preying upon vulnerable individuals and children.
The investigation successfully uncovered the criminal activities of the Ukcenaj brothers and Vata, leading to their conviction and sentencing.
