Police have arrested two men following the discovery of a large-scale cannabis farm in Kempsey, where around 1,500 plants were uncovered during a raid on Tuesday, November 26. The operation, carried out at a building off Bestmans Lane, followed a report from National Grid about irregular power usage at the site.
Upon forcing entry into the property, officers found an advanced cultivation setup, including 1,500 mature plants and vacuum-packed crops spread across five rooms.
West Mercia Police said two men, aged 24 and 33, had been charged with producing a controlled Class B substance. Leonard Kriashi, 33, of Clockhouse Parade Mansions, North Circular Road, London and Erald Sela, 24, of Bestmans Lane, Kempsey were both charged with producing a controlled class B drug – cannabis today (Wednesday, November 27).
They are due to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
A Coordinated Effort to Combat Illegal Drug Activity
Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Malvern, Dave Wise, praised the collaborative effort, stating:
“This morning, officers executed a warrant at a site in Kempsey following concerns raised by National Grid about the power supply to the building. We arrested two men and discovered approximately 1,500 plants, which will now be safely destroyed as we continue our ongoing efforts to tackle illegal drug cultivation in the south of the county.
“Large-scale cannabis grows 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.”
How to Report Suspected Illegal Activity
Police are urging members of the public to report any suspected illegal cannabis farms or other criminal activity. Reports can be made via the West Mercia Police website or by calling 999 in an emergency.
This discovery underlines the importance of community vigilance and the role of energy monitoring in identifying illegal operations. By working together, authorities and residents can help dismantle criminal enterprises and safeguard their communities.
