Police find cannabis cultivation site in Rietavas

Rietavas police have uncovered a significant cannabis cultivation operation on a private property, following up on received information. During a search of a man's farmstead on August 6, officers discovered a greenhouse containing six plastic pots with plants exhibiting characteristics of prohibited cannabis.

Further investigation into an outbuilding revealed more evidence of illicit activity. Authorities found three suspected plant dryers, nine jars filled with plant material believed to be a controlled substance, and various drug paraphernalia including four grinders and electronic scales. The outbuilding also housed equipment potentially used for growing cannabis, along with 17 plastic buckets containing plants with cannabis-like features. Three more buckets with suspected illegal plants were found in another section of the outbuilding.

In addition to the cannabis cultivation, police seized 16 packs of cigarettes that were not marked according to Lithuanian law. A pre-trial investigation has been initiated under Article 259 of the Criminal Code, overseen by a prosecutor from the Klaipėda District Prosecutor's Office.

The suspect, who had not previously come to the attention of law enforcement, was detained and placed in a holding cell. He was later released with a precautionary measure requiring him to provide a written pledge not to leave the area. Under the presumption of innocence, the individual is considered not guilty until proven otherwise in a court of law.