Two Men Charged After Cannabis Factories Found in Portslade

Two men have been charged after police uncovered suspected cannabis cultivation sites at industrial premises in Portslade. Sussex Police were called to units in Gordon Mews on Thursday 8 January following reports of suspicious activity. Officers attended the scene and discovered what they described as cannabis factories, containing a large number of plants along with […]

Two men have been charged after police uncovered suspected cannabis cultivation sites at industrial premises in Portslade.

Sussex Police were called to units in Gordon Mews on Thursday 8 January following reports of suspicious activity. Officers attended the scene and discovered what they described as cannabis factories, containing a large number of plants along with specialist growing equipment.

One man was found inside one of the buildings and arrested at the scene. A second man was detained shortly afterwards after being seen leaving the premises through a window. As the investigation progressed, a third individual from Hove was also arrested in connection with the discovery.

Following enquiries, 21-year-old Oltian Skarra and 26-year-old Ervis Marku, both listed as having no fixed address, were charged with producing a controlled Class B drug. The pair appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 9 January, where they were remanded in custody. They are due to appear at Lewes Crown Court on 6 February.

A 49-year-old man from Hove, who was also arrested as part of the investigation, has been released on conditional bail while police continue their enquiries.

Sussex Police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the cannabis factories remain ongoing. Officers are encouraging anyone with information that may assist to report it online or by calling 101, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously.