Eight arrests after raids targeting supply of cannabis in West and South Yorkshire

It follows a series of raids in Doncaster, Barnsley and West Yorkshire.

Police targeted seven properties in raids last week
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 23rd Oct 2024

Eight people have been arrested after a series of raids targeting the supply and sale of cannabis in West and South Yorkshire.

Police targeted seven properties in Doncaster and Barnsley, as well as in West Yorkshire, last Tuesday (October 15).

A flat in Doncaster was found to be 'filled to the brim' with 180 cannabis plants, with an estimated street value of £180,000.

Large amount of cannabis was recovered, along with cash, designer watches and a deactivated firearm.

Four men have been charged with conspiracy to produce a controlled Class B drug and conspiracy to supply a Class B controlled drug, including:

  • Deividas Vilcinskas, 23, and Dariusz Matikas, 40, both of Kentmere Drive, Doncaster;
  • Deimantas Plytninkas, 27, of no fixed address.
  • Edgar Cetyrkovskis, 30, of Southfield Crescent, Barnsley,

All appeared before Doncaster Magistrates Court on October 17 and are due before Sheffield Crown Court on November 14.

A vehicle was also stopped the same day, resulting in another arrest.

Redas Klusas, 56, of Kingsway, Thurnscoe, was charged with conspiracy to produce a controlled Class B and conspiracy to supply a Class B controlled drug.

He is due before Sheffield Crown Court on November 15.

Detective Chief Inspector Antony Slater, of South Yorkshire Police, 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.”

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