Two men, who illegally farmed hundreds of cannabis plants in a property in Eastbourne, have been jailed.
On February 19, Sussex Police officers found Eljohn Majika and Klevis Kurti, both 22 and of no fixed address, at a building on Maple Road, after gaining a warrant to search the site.
Once inside, they found more than 500 cannabis plants spread across multiple rooms, as well as living quarters, where the pair were staying.
The men were subsequently arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis plants and charged.
They pleaded guilty to the offences at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on February 20, and were sentenced to 14 months in prison, following their appearance at Lewes Crown Court on May 16.
Mojika and Kurti’s arrests were part of a wider operation targeting organised crime groups who were suspected to be involved in drug supply across the country.
Forces nationwide carried out warrants at 19 addresses, acting on intelligence developed over months of investigation.
In total, 17 people were arrested and 1,740 cannabis plants were seized, worth nearly £1.75million
More than £15,000 cash was also taken, as well as quantities of Class A drugs and £2,000 of criminal property.
Detective Inspector Gavin Patch said: “The illegal drug trade has a devastating impact on our communities.
“It is not just about the substances – the trade itself fuels violence, exploitation and a whole host of other crimes linked to the sale of, and addiction to, drugs.
“Sussex Police are committed to working with our partners to identify those involved in the sale of illicit substances and hold them to account while safeguarding their victims.”
If you know of anyone involved in the supply of drugs or know where cannabis is being grown, you can report to police in confidence online or via 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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