Family cannabis distribution network and marijuana plantation dismantled in Lviv region

Detention of illegal cultivation organisers

Police officers of the Lviv region, together with the prosecutor's office, identified and uncovered the activities of a criminal group suspected of illegally growing cannabis and distributing cannabis. According to the investigation, the organisation of narcotic plant cultivation was carried out by a 53-year-old resident of Lviv together with three accomplices aged 56, 59, and 63.

To set up the cultivation of narcotic raw material, the criminals chose an isolated, hard-to-reach plot of land in Stryi district. Preparatory work included clearing the area of excess vegetation, laying a path, and installing a water supply system for irrigation. It was here that plants were planted in specially prepared soil, treated with fertilisers and special agents to stimulate growth and flowering.

Family link in the supply chain

The finished narcotic substance, obtained after the harvest, was passed on for sale to another group of individuals. The distribution of cannabis was handled by a family residing in Lviv district. This link included a 46-year-old man, his 44-year-old wife, and their 19-year-old son. According to the investigation's version, they carried out distribution, including by shipping to various regions of Ukraine.

Search results and evidence found

The operational investigation was conducted by employees of the Cybercrime Counteraction Department jointly with investigators from the department investigating especially serious crimes of the Lviv region police investigative department. Procedural supervision was exercised by the Lviv Regional Prosecutor's Office.

During an authorised search of the plantation site, law enforcement officers found 30 cannabis plants, as well as equipment and devices for growing and packaging the finished narcotic substance. Electronic scales, communication devices, and cannabis, which, according to the investigation, were stored for further sale, were seized. A separate search was conducted at the family's residence, where a significant batch of the finished narcotic substance was found. All seized items have been sent for expert examination.

Criminal liability of the suspects

Four men who were directly involved in cultivation were charged under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine: Part 2 of Article 310 (illegal sowing or growing of opium poppy or cannabis) and Part 3 of Article 307 (illegal operations with narcotic substances, in particular their manufacture, storage, and distribution).

Three family members suspected of selling cannabis were notified of suspicion under Part 3 of Article 307 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The maximum penalty provided for the charged crimes is up to 12 years of imprisonment with confiscation of property.