Two men have been sentenced to 14 months in prison after being caught growing over 1,500 cannabis plants in an abandoned farm building in Kempsey.
Who Were the Offenders?
- Leonard Kriashi, 33, of Clockhouse Parade Mansion, North Circular Road, London
- Erald Sela, 24, of Bestmans Lane, Kempsey
Both men admitted to the production of a Class B drug at Worcester Crown Court on January 6 and were sentenced yesterday (March 12).
How Were They Caught?
The pair were arrested in November after police raided a building in Bestmans Lane, Kempsey. The raid followed a tip-off from the National Grid, which had detected abnormal power usage in the area, raising suspicions of illegal activity.
Operation Target – Tackling Organised Crime
The investigation was part of West Mercia Police’s Operation Target, aimed at cracking down on organised crime across the region.
Inspector Dave Wise, Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Malvern, commented:
“We are pleased to obtain convictions and custodial sentences for these two men following the warrant executed at the site in Kempsey last November. Large-scale cannabis grows such as this one are often tied to organised crime groups, whose activities fuel further criminality, including modern slavery. Tackling these operations is vital to protecting our communities and keeping them safe from harm.”
Keeping Our Communities Safe
The case highlights the links between large-scale drug production and organised crime, reinforcing the importance of police operations in keeping local communities safe.
West Mercia Police urge residents to report suspicious activity to help tackle crime. If you suspect illegal drug production in your area, contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
This conviction serves as a strong warning—illegal drug operations will not be tolerated in our communities. 🚔⚖️
