Huge Cannabis Factory Raided in Hawthorn Road
Police stumbled upon a large-scale cannabis operation in Eastbourne after a tip-off. Officers stormed a commercial building on Hawthorn Road in the early hours of Sunday, 30 November, uncovering dozens of cannabis plants and specialist growing gear.
Illegal Electricity Hack Powers Drug Operation
Investigators found evidence the cannabis crew had tampered with the electricity meter to run their setup undetected. The raid quickly turned dramatic when suspects tried to escape.
Suspects Caught After Roof Collapse Drama
Two men were nabbed nearby. The third, desperate to flee, climbed onto the building’s roof – which suddenly gave way beneath him. He crashed into a neighbouring business below and needed hospital treatment before being arrested.
Three Men Plead Guilty, Facing January Sentence
- Mikel Luku, 22
- Ronaldo Pepa, 23
- Idriz Xhetani, 26
All three, with no fixed address, were charged with production of a Class B drug. Luku and Pepa pleaded guilty at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 1 December. Xhetani followed suit on 2 December. All have been remanded in custody ahead of their sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on Monday, 5 January 2026.
