Three nabbed after massive cannabis farm busted at Preston’s Royal Hotel
Ervis Hida, 32, Klajdi Muzhaqi, 20, and Olgert Bica, 35, have been caught red-handed running a huge cannabis operation. The trio pleaded guilty at Preston Crown Court on Monday (27 Nov) to producing cannabis inside a derelict hotel.
Suspicious vehicle sparks police raid
Police were tipped off about a suspicious vehicle parked behind the Royal Hotel in Anchor Road on 27 October 2023. When officers arrived, a strong cannabis smell was wafting from the boarded-up building.
One officer noticed a tampered fuse box with wires snaking all over. With suspicions high, the team forced entry at 11.15pm.
15 rooms packed with cannabis plants
Inside, cops discovered 15 rooms filled with cannabis plants at every stage of growth. Each room held between 20 and 50 plants, all set up with heat lamps and fans to boost production.
The entire place was heavily secured, with locked entrances both outside and within the building.
Three suspects found hiding in loft
Hiding under a pile of cardboard in a loft, the three defendants were caught on the scene. All were living at the rundown hotel before their arrest. They gave no comment during police interviews but later admitted the offences in court.
Detective Constable Damian West said: “This significant drug production operation was uncovered thanks to some diligent police who recognised suspicious activity and literally followed their noses.
“Not only did they uncover the cannabis farm, but they also arrested the three individuals hiding in the loft beneath a substantial amount of cardboard.
“This success started with a tip-off from a member of the public about a suspicious vehicle at the premises. We urge locals to keep reporting anything fishy so we can continue to take action.”
