Nottingham Cannabis Gang Busted in £500k Grow-Op Raid
Three men have been nailed in a massive cannabis crackdown after cops smashed a high-tech drug factory in Nottingham. Evaldas Medelis, 29, and Laminonas Navickas, 23, both homeless, admitted producing cannabis. But it was 27-year-old Karolis Rusevicius, from Mapperley Plains, who took the full hit. He was found guilty of production, intent to supply, possession of criminal property, and weapons offences following a four-day trial.
Public Tip-Off Leads to Massive Grow-Op Discovery
The operation was exposed after a member of the public spotted a suspicious van outside an empty property on Bethlehem Street, where a strong smell of cannabis hung in the air. Police stopped the stolen vehicle shortly afterwards and found 80 cannabis plants inside. A raid on the premises unveiled numerous growing areas, hundreds of plants up to 3ft tall, and a slick lighting and watering system.
Officers also uncovered an illegal electricity connection and a secret hatch into the adjoining flat—where the suspected growers had been living.
Dealer Counted Cash as Police Closed In
Forensic clues in the building led cops to Rusevicius, living comfortably in a £600,000 Nottinghamshire home. Nottinghamshire Police swooped on him mid-count of £20,000 in cash. A further search uncovered a handgun, live ammo, and two large bags stuffed with cannabis.
Detective Constable Philip Jacobs said: “This was one of the most sophisticated setups I’ve seen. We stopped them from making more than half a million pounds and took a gun off the streets. This sends a clear message—organised crime won’t be tolerated here.”
“The public’s help was vital in cracking this case. We always urge people to report suspicious activity – it could stop criminals in their tracks.”
Police Praise Public and Warn Other Gangs
DC Jacobs thanked the local community for their vigilance and warned other crime groups that Humberside is off-limits for illegal drug enterprises.
“Even if we can’t act at once, every tip helps with future investigations,” he added.
