Two men have been charged following a police raid on a suspected cannabis factory in the Black Country. Officers from West Midlands Police executed a warrant at a property on Littleworth Avenue in the Woodsetton area of Dudley.
Police Deploy Dogs and Drones in Raid
The operation took place on the morning of Wednesday, December 17. Police deployed specialist resources, including dog units and drones, to assist in the search of the premises. A force spokesperson confirmed that a cannabis cultivation set-up was allegedly discovered inside the property.
It was further alleged that the electricity supply had been bypassed and that specialist growing equipment was found at the scene. Gintalitas Burdulis, aged 51, and Evaldes Ratkevicius, aged 45, were both arrested at the location.
Men Remanded and Appear in Court
The two men were subsequently charged with the production of cannabis. They were remanded in custody and were scheduled to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates' Court on Thursday, December 18.
Dudley North Sergeant Ross Treacy commented on the operation, stating it was part of a concerted day of action. "The warrants were part of a day of action to continue our crackdown on crime and act on concerns raised by our communities," he said.
Warnings Over Dangers of Cannabis Farms
Sergeant Treacy highlighted the significant dangers associated with such illicit operations. "Cannabis grows can lead to devastating consequences especially when electricity is bypassed – it places the house and those around it at risk but grows like this also lead to further criminal activity," he explained.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicions. "We’re continually working alongside other teams and departments, but your help is vital. I would ask anyone with any worries around criminal activity in your area to get in touch with us, make a report, speak to an officer, or make an anonymous report via Crimestoppers."
The police action underscores an ongoing effort to tackle organised drug cultivation within the region, addressing both the immediate crime and the associated community safety risks.
