A full-cycle cannabis production drug laboratory was uncovered in Cherkasy region
Operatives from the Cherkasy Department of Internal Security of the National Police, together with regional police investigators, exposed a local resident of Cherkasy who had established a full cycle of cannabis production in the region. According to the investigation, the organiser recruited several accomplices and clearly distributed roles.
An underground workshop for growing, drying and processing narcotic plants was set up on the organiser's property. Modular containers with modern lighting, ventilation, irrigation and microclimate maintenance systems were installed there. Solar panels and generators were used for autonomous power supply.
Cannabis seeds and mineral fertilisers were ordered online and delivered by post. This allowed for a continuous cycle of cultivation and processing and an increase in production volumes.
According to law enforcement officials, a 42-year-old native of the Kyiv region was responsible for plant selection and care. Another participant provided round-the-clock security for the plantation and assisted in the cultivation and production process.
The finished product was packaged in plastic bags and sold in large batches, in particular to dealers in the capital region. The goods were delivered personally by the organiser.
During simultaneous authorised searches conducted with the participation of KORD special forces and special police, law enforcement officers seized 458 cannabis plants, about 32 kilograms of finished cannabis, laboratory equipment, rough notes, cash and other evidence.
Three members of the group and one dealer were detained in accordance with Article 208 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine. They were notified of their suspicion under Part 3 of Article 307 and Part 2 of Article 310 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The maximum punishment is up to 12 years' imprisonment with confiscation of property. The proceedings are being conducted by the Cherkasy District Prosecutor's Office.
