Two men sentenced after cannabis factory found

Two men have been jailed after cannabis estimated to be worth more than half a million pounds was discovered at an address in Mimram Road last month.

Police attended on Wednesday 9th April after reports of suspicious activity at the property and discovered that the building had been converted into a cannabis factory, with the power supply being dangerously tampered with.

Two men attempted to escape through the roof but were arrested a short time later and taken into custody.

Ded Makaj, aged 34, from Haringey Park in London and Bylbyl Nezaj, aged 36, from The Meadows, Bishop’s Stortford, were both charged with production of a Class B drug.

They pleaded guilty and were sentenced to three years imprisonment at St Albans Crown Court on Tuesday 20th May. They will be deported upon release.

Detective Constable Charlotte Bell, from the East Herts Local Crime Unit led the investigation. She said: "This was quite a significant find and we're pleased with the sentences handed down.

"All drugs and the criminality associated with their use and supply can have devastating effects on local communities. They are often linked to acquisitive crime, such as burglary and theft, as well as violent offences, which leave innocent residents living in fear.

"Cannabis factories in particular pose a significant risk to those living close by, as criminals often seek to access free electricity and set up unsafe wiring to power the lamps and fans needed to grow the plants.

"They will often knock down walls and block off ventilation to prevent the smell escaping, causing damp and structural damage which can affect adjoining properties.

"If you suspect drug criminality is taking place in your neighbourhood, please report it. Every call helps us to build up the evidence we need to take action. You can report information anonymously through Crimestoppers if you prefer."