A Gravesend man has been sentenced to four years and six months in prison after police uncovered a sophisticated cannabis operation concealed behind a false wall in his property. Antony Gjergji, 28, was arrested on January 4, 2024, following the execution of a search warrant at his residence on Peacock Street.

During the search, officers discovered a hidden entrance behind a false wall, which led to a basement containing over 1,000 cannabis plants. The plants were meticulously cultivated and indicated an extensive operation intended to produce large quantities of the illegal substance.

Gjergji was subsequently charged with producing cannabis, a charge he denied. However, after a trial at Woolwich Crown Court, he was found guilty and received his sentence on August 9, 2024.

Detective Constable Lucy Baker, who led the investigation, highlighted the seriousness of the crime and its impact on the community. Gjergji was responsible for cultivating a significant number of cannabis plants,” she said. He went to great lengths to conceal what he was doing, but our officers were able to locate the false wall, ensuring that these drugs did not reach the streets of Kent.”

DC Baker also emphasized the broader implications of such crimes, noting, “His sentence is quite lengthy for this type of crime, but it reflects the detrimental impact these organized criminals have on the families and dependents of drug users and also the wider community.

The successful operation underscores the commitment of local law enforcement to tackling drug-related crimes and protecting the community from the harmful effects of illegal substances.