A major drugs bust linked to Gatwick Airport has resulted in two men being charged after police uncovered a suitcase filled with cannabis at a flat in Hove, East Sussex.
The raid was carried out by Sussex Police on 8 May, a day after officers began investigating the importation of cannabis through London Gatwick Airport.
Drugs, Cash, and Jewellery Seized
At the address in Boulevard Place, Hove, officers found a suitcase packed with cannabis, with an estimated street value in the tens of thousands of pounds. A quantity of jewellery and large sums of cash believed to be linked to criminal activity were also seized during the operation.
Two suspects were arrested at the scene:
- Zakaria Deghayes, 23, of Chichester Drive West, Saltdean
- Husam Emsalm, 18, of Whitehawk Crescent, Brighton
Both men have been charged with:
- Possession with intent to supply Class B drugs (cannabis)
- Acquiring, using, or possessing criminal property
They appeared at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 9 May. Deghayes was remanded in custody, while Emsalm was released on bail.
The case has now been referred to Lewes Crown Court, where both are expected to enter pleas on 6 June 2025.
Police Statement
Detective Sergeant Ian Warncken from Gatwick CID said:
“This was a significant discovery of drugs, and we are continuing to investigate the circumstances of this incident.
We urge anyone with relevant information to come forward, quoting serial 251 of 07/05.”
