Man faces deportation after cannabis farm raided

Richard PriceWest Midlands
West Mercia Police A police mugshot of a man wearing a black and white patterned jumper. He has black hair and a black beard. He is positioned against a light-coloured backdrop.West Mercia Police
Festim Ahmetaj was convicted at Worcester Crown Court last month

A man has been sentenced to almost three years in prison and now faces being deported after he was caught growing cannabis and being in breach of a deportation order.

Festim Ahmetaj, 35, of Victoria Square, Droitwich was convicted at Worcester Crown Court last month.

"Cannabis grows like this are often linked to organised criminal gangs and this is another one shut down and the 'farmer' behind bars," said Insp Lisa Hornberger.

"Ahmetaj also breached a deportation order so he ultimately faces being thrown out of the UK pending a decision by the Border and Immigration Agency."

He was sentenced to a total of 34 months in jail, along with the forfeiture and destruction of the cannabis plants and growing equipment as well as the forfeiture of £300 cash.

He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £228.

Worcester Crown Court confirmed a deportation order from 2022 remained in effect, and that Ahmetaj was to be deported to Albania upon release.

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