A POLICE crackdown which targeted the ‘callous actions’ of an organised crime gang linked to the production and supply of cannabis across the UK has resulted in two Barnsley men being charged.
Officers executed warrants at properties on October 15, which led to the recovery of approximately 14kg of cannabis buds, large amounts of cash, two watches and a deactivated firearm.
One of the properties searched, a flat, was filled to the brim with cannabis plants at various stages of growth.
In total, over 180 cannabis plants were recovered from the flat, and it is estimated that they were worth a total street value of £180,000.
Redas Klusas, 56, of Kingsway, Thurnscoe and Edgar Cetyrkovskis, 30, of Southfield Crescent, Barnsley were charged with conspiracy to produce cannabis and conspiracy to supply.
Deividas Vilcinskas, 23, and Dariusz Matikas, 40, both of Kentmere Drive, Doncaster and Deimantas Plytninkas, 27, of no fixed abode, were also arrested and will all appear at Sheffield Crown Court next month.
The action follows on from a number of vehicle stops across the country where vehicles were found to be transporting cannabis and a series of warrants executed in Barnsley earlier this year where over 3,300 cannabis plants were recovered - with an estimated street value of £3.3m - once fully cultivated.
Detective Chief Inspector Antony Slater said: “Cannabis farms are often linked to organised crime and the exploitation of vulnerable people.
“These factories significantly impact local communities and we will continue in our efforts to disrupt organised criminality and create safer neighbourhoods.
“Selling cannabis funds organised crime in our communities and this needs to stop.
“We would urge the public to report any concerns to us.
“Be vigilant and look out of for the signs that a property is being used for illegal activity.”
Police say tell-tale signs include the drug’s distinctive smell, blacked-out windows, excessive condensation, blocked letterboxes and visitors who stay for short periods.
“If you are concerned about crime in your area, you can report it to us via 101 or 999 in an emergency,” Det Chf Insp Slater added.
“You can also submit information to us anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
A spokesperson from the National Crime Agency (NCA) said drug-peddling criminals’ behaviour won’t be tolerated.
“Organised crime groups rely on people to move their product and money around.
“By dismantling these groups, communities are protected.
“Hopefully this sends a clear message to the public of the determination to rid communities of this sort of criminalisation.”
