£1.7m of cannabis seized in operation to tackle illegal drugs in Cambridgeshire
An operation to tackle criminal gangs cultivating cannabis in Cambridgeshire has led to the seizure of £1.7m worth of cannabis.
Operation Mille is a nationwide operation which sees police forces across the country work together to tackle the trade in cannabis and the associated violent crime and exploitation.
In Cambridgeshire last month, the force, with the support of Norfolk and Lincolnshire Police, carried out 12 raids, made seven arrests and uncovered 10 cannabis factories containing plants with a total street value of more than £1.7m.
The raids took place last month (February 17-21) during a week-long intensification period, at properties in Wisbech and Peterborough as well as Holbeach and Boston in Lincolnshire.
Seven people were arrested and have since been charged in connection with production of cannabis and will appear at Huntingdon Magistrates’ Court on 20 March.
They included Gentjan Agaliu, 42, of Brook Road, Bristol, who has been charged with production of cannabis in Orange Grove, Wisbech.
Director of Intelligence, Detective Superintendent Chris Treadwell, from the intelligence and specialist crime department, said: “Cambridgeshire Constabulary is working daily to disrupt the activity of these criminal gangs and bring offenders to justice. We’re hitting criminal gangs where it hurts the most, in their pockets.
“We will continue to work with our communities who play a vital part in helping us tackle the production of cannabis by reporting their concerns. Local people are our eyes and ears in our communities and the information they provide is key. Please continue to be vigilant and report any concerns to us.”
To report concerns around the production of cannabis or exploitation of vulnerable people, visit www.cambs.police.uk or call 101. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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