Police have searched a house in Hove after axe-wielding burglars kidnapped a man, having forced their way into a cannabis farm.
The cannabis farm raid – described by police as an aggravated burglary – happened in Southampton last Friday (12 March).
So far, 11 men have been arrested as detectives investigate an incident that started as a group of men smashed their way into the property using an axe.
Hampshire Constabulary said that the group then forced a man into a vehicle and sped off.
Yesterday (Wednesday 17 March) five marked police vehicles were parked outside a semi-detached house in Gleton Avenue, in Hangleton.
Neighbours said that police arrived at about 3am and were still there late into the evening as they searched the property which is understood to be the home of a café owner.
Hampshire Constabulary said this afternoon (Thursday 18 March): “Officers investigating a report of an aggravated burglary at an address in Southampton have made further arrests.
“Two men aged 27 and 30, from Southampton, have been arrested on suspicion of kidnap. Both remain in custody at this time.
“These further arrests form part of our investigation into a report of an aggravated burglary at an address in St Andrew’s Road at around 3.23am on Friday 12 March.
“It was reported that a group of men had gained entry to the property using an axe before forcing a man into a vehicle that then sped off.
“The man has since been located.
“Officers attended and discovered a cannabis factory inside the address. Approximately 100 to 150 cannabis plants were located along with a number of bags containing cannabis.
“The street value is estimated to be worth £40,000.
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“Five men have already been charged with offences relating to this incident.
“Spartak Demiraj, 30, of Brittania Road, in Southend, Brixiado Halilaj, 20, of Portland Street, Southampton, and Zef Gjoka, 29, of Nightingale Road, Southampton, have each been charged with kidnap.
“Aranit Topalli, 27, of St Andrew’s Road, Southampton, has been charged with kidnap and producing class B drugs.
“Armando Topalli, 27, of John Thornycroft Road, Southampton, has been charged with kidnap and possession of a firearm with intent.
“All five men appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 16 March and have been remanded to next appear at Southampton Crown Court on Friday 16 April.
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“Four other men were also initially arrested in connection with the incident.
- A 37-year-old man, from Tottenham, in London, was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. He has been released from custody but remains under investigation.
- A 43-year-old man, from Tottenham, in London, was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. He has been released from custody but remains under investigation.
- A 41-year-old man, from Southampton, was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary, kidnap and producing class B drugs. He has been released from custody but remains under investigation.
- A 69-year-old man, from Southampton, was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary, kidnap and being concerned in the supply of class B drugs. He has been released from custody on police bail with conditions while our inquiries continue.
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“We continue to appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area at around the time of the incident or has any information that may assist our investigation to call us on 101 quoting 44210092064.
“Alternatively, people can call Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555111.”
