Pair jailed after police bust cannabis factory in former village primary school
Two men have been sentenced to prison after police discovered a large cannabis farm inside a former primary school in west Wales, uncovering a criminal operation worth £1 million. The events unfolded on July 4 last year when police intercepted two vehicles suspected of being involved in the supply of cannabis. The vehicles, a Volvo and a rented van, were stopped just after exiting the M4 motorway, where officers found close to 100kg of cannabis hidden in laundry bags, along with mobile phones. The subsequent investigation led police to Hen Ysgol Gynradd in Marble Terrace, Llandysul, where a sophisticated cannabis cultivation setup was found.
Upon arriving at the former school, officers were met with boarded-up windows, silver vents, and the strong odour of cannabis emanating from the premises. A thorough search revealed multiple cannabis cultivation rooms, living quarters, and evidence of recently harvested plants, resulting in the seizure of 956 cannabis plants. CCTV footage from the location showed various individuals and vehicles frequenting the site before the interception, underscoring the scale of the operation. Unfortunately, just two weeks post-discovery, a significant fire erupted within the school building, further highlighting the risks associated with such illegal activities.
Alfred Perkola, 44, from Ealing, London, and Aldi Gjegjaj, 25, from Salford, Greater Manchester, were both sentenced at Swansea Crown Court. Perkola received a 45-month prison term, while Gjegjaj was sentenced to 36 months after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply cannabis. Commenting on the case, DC Steve Thomas of Dyfed-Powys Police emphasised the importance of removing illegal drugs from communities, noting the significant impact of intercepting nearly £2 million worth of drugs destined for the streets. The police force remains committed to combating drug-related activities and disrupting the illicit drug supply across the region.
Subsequent investigations into the case shed light on the intricate network involved in the cannabis production and distribution, underscoring the collaborative efforts required to dismantle such operations. The successful prosecution of Perkola and Gjegjaj serves as a testament to the dedication of law enforcement in tackling drug-related crimes and safeguarding communities from the harmful effects of illegal substances. The case also highlights the potential dangers posed by cannabis factories, as demonstrated by the subsequent fire that engulfed the former school. Law enforcement agencies continue to maintain vigilance in identifying and dismantling drug-related activities to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the region.
Overall, the incident underscores the importance of proactive policing and collaborative efforts in combatting drug-related crimes. By intercepting the vehicles and uncovering the cannabis factory, authorities have prevented a significant quantity of illegal drugs from entering circulation. The sentences imposed on the individuals involved send a strong message against drug-related activities and reinforce the commitment of law enforcement agencies to eliminate such illicit operations. Moving forward, continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement and communities are essential in addressing the challenges posed by drug trafficking and ensuring a safer environment for all.