Man jailed after officers seized over 700 cannabis plants in Cheshire
The caller reported witnessing suspicious men entering the disused building
A man has been jailed after officers seized over 700 cannabis plants from a farm in Macclesfield.
Voktot Isufaj, of no fixed abode, Winsford, appeared at Chester Crown Court yesterday (16 June) where he was sentenced to three years in prison.
The 43-year-old previously pleaded guilty to one count of production of class B drugs.
In addition to his prison sentence, he was also order to pay £228 court costs.
The court heard that on Thursday 8 May police were called to reports of suspicious activity at a former bank on Chestergate, Macclesfield.
The caller reported witnessing suspicious men entering the disused building, along with a strong smell of cannabis in the area.
Officers were dispatched to the scene and after entering the premises they discovered approximately 700 cannabis plants.
Isufaj was arrested at the scene and later charged in relation to the discovery.
Drug analysis experts estimated the plants could yield a potential street value of between £238,480 and £715,480.
"You will be listened to"
Following the sentencing, Police Constable Ryan Smith, who led the investigation said: “This is another great result which demonstrates the value of intelligence from the public.
"As a result of the information provided, not only have we removed a significant quantity of cannabis the streets of Macclesfield, but Isufaj is now behind bars.
“This former bank had been converted into a sophisticated cannabis farm, with specialist lighting and ventilation systems to maximise the amount of class B drugs being cultivated inside.
"In total, the building contained 724 cannabis plants at various stages of growth, which have since been destroyed.
“While this cannabis farm has now been closed, our fight against illegal drugs continues and II urge anyone with any information about suspected drug related activity in their community to get in touch.
"You will be listened to, and we will investigate the matter.”