A Gwent Police drug operation uncovered a sizeable cannabis factory at commercial units on Bowen Industrial Estate in Aberbargoed in May, with officers crediting a police dog for locating one of two men arrested.
Raid found factory, living quarters and a large crop
When officers searched the connected industrial units they discovered 313 cannabis plants spread over three rooms. The premises also contained makeshift living accommodation, including a kitchen and bathroom.
During the search, a 42-year-old man was found hiding behind a false wall. Police say he was located after the force’s dog, PD Asko, followed his scent.
“Hysaj tried his best to hide from officers inside the building but he could not evade PD Asko and his amazing sense of smell meaning we could bring this suspect to justice.”
A second man, a 40-year-old from the Abertillery area whose name has not been provided in court reporting, was arrested at his home. Officers say cocaine was seized and evidence suggesting drug supply was recovered from his mobile phone.
Court outcome and police comment
Both men appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday 31 July. The 42-year-old, identified in reporting as Albert Hysaj, pleaded guilty to producing a Class B controlled drug and was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment. The 40-year-old from Abertillery admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine and in the production of cannabis and received a suspended sentence.
Inspector Laura Paget of Gwent Police’s Community Action Team highlighted the disruption caused to organised crime by dismantling such operations.
Local impact and practical concerns
Cannabis factories in industrial units can pose risks to communities beyond the illegal drugs themselves: they may involve electrical tampering, fire hazards and sometimes links to wider criminal networks. The police statement underlined that removing these operations helps prevent drugs entering local streets and stops proceeds being used to fund further crime.
- Location: Bowen Industrial Estate, Aberbargoed
- Crop discovered: 313 plants across three rooms
- Court hearing: Cardiff Crown Court, 31 July
| Person | Age | Offence | Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albert Hysaj | 42 | Producing a Class B drug (cannabis) | 6 months imprisonment |
| Unnamed man (Abertillery) | 40 | Concern in supply of cocaine; concerned in production of cannabis | Suspended sentence |
Residents with information about suspected drug activity are being urged to contact Gwent Police. The force continues to highlight the value of community reporting in identifying and disrupting illegal operations across the county.
