Illegal Immigrant Sentenced for Major Cannabis Farm in Midlands
An illegal immigrant involved in operating a substantial cannabis farm valued at up to £200,000 has been imprisoned following a police raid in the Midlands. Redis Shahini, 22, attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by determined officers.
Dramatic Police Chase and Arrest
When police executed a warrant at a property on Manesty Crescent in Clifton, Nottingham, on November 20 last year, Shahini tried to escape by leaping over garden fences. Officers pursued him across fences and shed roofs, eventually detaining him in a neighbouring back garden. This chase highlighted the risks associated with such illicit operations.
Scale of the Cannabis Operation
Inside the semi-detached house, police discovered 263 cannabis plants being cultivated across three floors. The street value of these plants was estimated to be as high as £200,000, indicating a significant criminal enterprise. The grow was described as a substantial operation that could have generated considerable profits if not shut down.
Legal Proceedings and Deportation Order
Shahini, who has no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to production of a Class B drug and knowingly entering the UK in breach of a deportation order. He had previously been deported from the UK in 2024. At Nottingham Crown Court on Tuesday, February 10, he was sentenced to 22 months in prison. Authorities have recommended that he be deported upon his release from jail.
Community Impact and Police Response
Police Constable Jane Gibson of the neighbourhood policing team emphasized the importance of community intelligence in tackling such crimes. She stated, "We’re grateful for these reports and they highlight our efforts to build trust and strong links within the community." She also warned that such properties can become magnets for other criminal activities, including theft and fire hazards, posing risks to local residents.
This case underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug production and illegal immigration in the region, with a focus on community cooperation and proactive policing strategies.
