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Authorities in Belfast have unearthed a sophisticated £1.5 million cannabis-growing operation camouflaged as a fish wholesale business. This industrial-scale enterprise, located in a warehouse on Limestone Road, highlights the lengths organized crime networks will go to conceal illicit activities.
The operation was discovered on June 7, 2024, after the property owner attempted to arrange an inspection visit. Before the landlord’s arrival, several individuals were spotted leaving the site in a Renault van. Police later stopped the van in Holywood, Co Down, finding bags filled with cannabis, reinforcing suspicions of criminal activity.
Upon inspection, the warehouse revealed a purpose-built cannabis factory outfitted with advanced cultivation equipment, more than 1,000 plants, and living quarters for at least four people. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated at £1.5 million.
Shahidullah Arghandabi, a 25-year-old businessman and Afghan national residing in London, was detained in August and charged with conspiracy to produce and supply Class B drugs. Prosecutors assert that Arghandabi leased the warehouse under the guise of operating a meat and fish wholesale company.
Described as a "high-ranking member of an organized crime gang," Arghandabi is also under investigation for similar cannabis factories uncovered in Scotland and southern England. According to Crown counsel Stephanie Boyd, “There have been ongoing commercial cultivations in rented premises under the guise of this wholesale company.”
The discovery underscores the industrial scale of cannabis production in the UK. Equipped with accommodations for workers and a highly structured cultivation setup, the operation points to significant investment and planning. Mr. Justice McAlinden remarked, “On the face of it, this is a UK-wide cannabis production operation.”
Arghandabi’s bail application was adjourned as authorities investigate whether he possesses an Afghan passport, raising concerns about his potential to flee. Highlighting the risks, Mr. Justice McAlinden stated, “In an alleged commercial operation of this nature, which is probably awash with money, people can be spirited out of the country quite quickly.”
The case remains under investigation, shedding light on how organized crime syndicates exploit legitimate business fronts to conduct illegal activities.
How Should Law Enforcement Tackle Cannabis Gangs?
Stricter penalties for masterminds.
Increase surveillance on industrial properties.
Focus on legalizing and regulating cannabis.
Collaborate across regions to dismantle networks.
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