Police uncover a cannabis farm in Hartlepool, wired dangerously to a street light
Hartlepool: In September 2022, Sergeant Tony Snow and his team focused on finding cannabis farms. They conducted 52 investigations, applying for search warrants and planning operations to target suspicious properties.
In October 2022, they found a cannabis farm on Stanhope Avenue. Gentian Gjergi, 34, is wanted in connection with this case. The team has arrested over 50 people for drug production.
They seized £12 million worth of cannabis and other drugs. They also removed dangerous weapons like knives and machetes from the streets.
These farms often have risky electrical setups, which can cause fires. In February 2023, they discovered a £700,000 cannabis farm on York Road. The heat was so intense that officers had to leave the room.
In November 2023, another farm was found on Brenda Road, linked to Shahini Mishel, 27. A drone showed how hot the property was during the investigation.
In October 2022, a large farm valued at £350,000 was discovered on Stanhope Avenue. Suspects had wired the equipment to a streetlight, creating a dangerous situation for pedestrians.
Superintendent Alan O’Donoghue emphasized the importance of dismantling these illegal operations. He noted that they lead to antisocial behavior and pose fire risks to nearby homes.
He added that removing drugs and weapons helps reduce crime in Hartlepool. Kevi Alla, 25, is wanted for a cannabis farm on Thornton Street in February 2024.
Recently, a large farm valued at £1.3 million was found on Greythorpe Industrial Estate. Five men have been charged and appeared in court.
Some suspects are still at large and may have fled the country. Police are actively searching for them.
