South Yorkshire: A nationwide crackdown on organized crime led to the seizure of $4.15 million worth of cannabis.
Major Operation
Operation Mille targeted gangs involved in large-scale cannabis production. Police across the country coordinated raids to dismantle illegal operations.
Between February 17 and February 21, officers in all four districts of South Yorkshire executed 17 drug warrants, arresting 13 suspects and seizing over 3,000 cannabis plants.
Massive Seizure
In total, 3,281 cannabis plants were confiscated, each valued at $1,260, bringing the estimated street value to $4.15 million. All seized plants will be destroyed.
A morning raid in Sheffield uncovered 500 plants at a property on Townhead Road. Two men hiding in the loft were arrested.
Arrests Made
Sadik Sula (24) and Renato Vrapi (26), both of no fixed address, were charged with drug production and money laundering.
In Barnsley, police raided a property on Bartholomew Street and seized 300 cannabis plants spread across multiple rooms.
Dung Tran Phu (35) was arrested and charged with producing a controlled substance.
Larger Operation
A major cannabis farm in Rotherham was discovered on Doncaster Gate, containing 1,500 plants along with large bags of processed cannabis bud.
In Doncaster, police raided two properties on Cooper Street and Childers Street, confiscating 500 plants.
Police Statement
Detective Chief Inspector Samuel Blakemore emphasized the dangers of cannabis farms.
“Cannabis production is often linked to organized crime and human exploitation. These operations fund serious violence and criminal activity.”
“We urge the public to report suspicious activity to help us gather intelligence and target more criminal networks.”
Wider Impact
The operation was led by the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organized Crime Unit (YHROCU).
Across the Yorkshire and Humber region:
58 warrants were executed
29 arrests were made
35 active cannabis farms were dismantled
8,716 plants seized, valued at $11 million
Weapons confiscated, including machetes, CS gas, and an axe
Regional Police Response
Detective Superintendent Fiona Gaffney, who led the response, stated:
“These raids have dealt a major blow to organized crime groups profiting from illegal drug operations.”
“Criminal networks use violence and exploitation to maintain their trade. This operation has helped disrupt their activities.”
Authorities continue to urge residents to report any suspicious activity to police via 101, or call 999 in emergencies. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
