Sophisticated hydroponic cannabis farms busted in Athens; three arrested

Authorities in Athens have dismantled a well-organized criminal group that transformed apartments into high-tech hydroponic cannabis production facilities, known as "skunk" factories. The operation, led by the Anti-Narcotics Unit of the Hellenic Police, resulted in the arrest of three individuals: a 53-year-old man, a 49-year-old man, and a 48-year-old woman.

The group operated across various areas of Attica, with a primary focus on supplying the Zografou University Campus. They systematically distributed narcotic substances, including raw cannabis and hashish, referred to as "chocolate." Police investigations revealed a clear hierarchy within the organization. The 53-year-old suspect served as the cultivator, establishing the first laboratory in his home. The 49-year-old was responsible for guarding and storing the drugs, as well as distributing them to buyers, with the 48-year-old woman acting as his direct accomplice in managing the storage and a second laboratory.

Authorities discovered two fully equipped hydroponic laboratories. The first, located at the 53-year-old's residence, contained nine cannabis plants, one kilogram of skunk, 28 grams of hashish, and plant extracts. The second laboratory, situated in a ground-floor apartment, housed 58 cannabis plants and featured advanced equipment for rapid plant growth, including specialized lighting and ventilation systems. The criminal enterprise anticipated substantial profits, with estimated sales revenue surpassing 90,000 euros, indicating a professional modus operandi.

In total, law enforcement seized over two kilograms of skunk, 67 cannabis plants, 31 grams of hashish, and 690 grams of plant extracts. Additionally, they confiscated professional cultivation equipment such as lighting lamps, transformers, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, and acidity meters. Five precision scales, four mobile phones, and 1,250 euros in cash were also seized. The three arrested individuals have been handed over to the prosecutor, and the Anti-Narcotics Unit continues its investigation to identify any further collaborators.