Police Uncover £450,000 Cannabis Farm in Kirkby Stephen as Man Charged
Police have uncovered a cannabis farm with an estimated street value of £450,000 at a property in Kirkby Stephen following a planned raid. Officers discovered a large scale cultivation during searches of an address in Market Square. A man has since been charged in connection with the operation.
The warrant was executed by officers from Eden's Neighbourhood Policing Team alongside Westmorland and Furness's Community and Serious Organised Crime Unit. Investigators located a substantial number of cannabis plants growing inside the property. Police said the illegal drugs recovered were valued at approximately £450,000. The investigation remains ongoing.
A 32 year old man, identified as Agim Cjapi of Market Street, Kirkby Stephen, has been charged with producing a Class B controlled drug. He appeared before magistrates on Thursday following his arrest. The court remanded him into custody pending further legal proceedings. His next hearing is scheduled for July 31.
The discovery highlights continued efforts by Cumbria Police to tackle organised drug production across the county. Cannabis farms are often linked to wider criminal networks and can pose significant fire and safety risks because of illegally installed electrical equipment. Officers continue to urge the public to report suspicious activity in their communities.
Police have not released further details about the investigation while enquiries continue. Detectives are examining evidence recovered from the property as part of the ongoing case. Additional updates are expected following the defendant's next court appearance.
The seizure marks another significant blow against illegal drug production in Cumbria and demonstrates the continued focus on disrupting organised crime. Authorities say proactive intelligence led policing remains essential in identifying and dismantling sophisticated cannabis cultivation sites. The case will now proceed through the courts in the coming weeks.
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