Ten people have been arrested and cannabis worth up to £1.7 million seized as part of a month-long crackdown on cannabis factories operated by organised crime groups across the country.
During February, police forces conducted a series of coordinated raids, executing more than a dozen warrants at properties in Bishop’s Stortford, Cheshunt, Croxley Green, Stevenage, Royston, and Watford.
The operation led to the seizure of over 2,000 cannabis plants and 3.5kg of prepared cannabis, as part of a targeted campaign to disrupt large-scale cannabis cultivation and the criminal networks behind it.
Six Charged with Drug Production Offences
Six individuals have been charged with being concerned in the production of a controlled drug (cannabis) and have been remanded in custody while investigations continue. All six are from Gower Road in Royston and have been named as:
- Ervis Mema, 22
- Gramos Ahmetai, 42
- Skender Beci, 44
- Anduel Laqi, 26
- Ledjon Cani, 18
- Amaraldo Elezi, 34
Four Others Arrested on Suspicion of Drug Supply
Four additional suspects were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class B drugs (cannabis). They include:
- A 42-year-old man from Watford
- A 47-year-old man from Cheshunt
- A 38-year-old man from Stevenage
- A 24-year-old man from Bishop’s Stortford
All four have since been released under investigation, pending further enquiries.
‘Major Impact’ on Drug Supply Networks
Detective Inspector Paul Stanbridge, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Local Policing Command, praised the success of the operation:
“Cannabis cultivation is big business for organised crime gangs, generating large sums of money which funds further serious crime.
These operations have made a major impact on disrupting cannabis production and drug supply in Hertfordshire, and more broadly across the region.”
He added:
“Cannabis farms often pose a serious risk to nearby residents, from fire hazards due to tampered electricity supplies, to increased anti-social behaviour and associated violence.”
Public Urged to Help Spot Cannabis Factories
Police are urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Signs of cannabis cultivation may include:
- Strong, sweet smell of cannabis
- Blacked-out windows or vents
- Bright lighting during odd hours
- Birds gathering on warm rooftops in winter
- High condensation on windows
- Tampered electricity meters and unusual wiring
- Frequent visitors at all hours
- Large amounts of compost waste or electrical equipment
Anyone with concerns is encouraged to report anonymously via Crimestoppers or contact their local police force on 101.
This latest operation highlights the growing scale of cannabis cultivation linked to organised criminal groups, and the commitment of law enforcement to disrupt their operations and protect communities.
