Yavne man indicted for running cannabis-growing operation, 423 kg. of drugs found
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A 57-year-old man has been indicted for operating a large cannabis-growing operation out of a rented villa in Migdal, Israel.
- Police seized approximately 423 kilograms of cannabis, along with cultivation equipment, cash, and documents during a raid.
- The suspect is also accused of illegally connecting to the electricity grid, allegedly stealing NIS 159,000 in power.
An indictment has been filed against a 57-year-old man from Yavne for allegedly running an extensive cannabis-growing operation from a rented villa in Migdal. Israel Police conducted a raid on the property, uncovering approximately 423 kilograms of cannabis. The operation also yielded seized documents, thousands of shekels in cash, and a significant amount of equipment used for cultivation, including fans, blowers, timers, water pumps, irrigation systems, and temperature gauges.
has taken full responsibility for his actions.
The suspect, identified as David Khondiashvili, remains in custody. During a recent court hearing, a detention assessment report was ordered for his case. Khondiashvili is also accused of illegally connecting the villa to the electricity grid by bypassing the meter, an act that allegedly resulted in the theft of about NIS 159,000 in electricity. The Northern District Attorney's Office is seeking his continued detention until the legal proceedings conclude.
Unfortunately, he decided to set up a laboratory.
Khondiashvili's attorney, Yaron Porer, stated that his client has "taken full responsibility for his actions." Porer mentioned that Khondiashvili has no prior criminal record and suffers from a complex medical condition, indicating an intention to seek his client's release. The attorney explained that Khondiashvili had initially established a vacation cabin complex at the site, but the business failed due to wartime economic difficulties, leading him to "set up a laboratory."
Israel Police will continue to use all means at its disposal in the fight against the scourge of drugs, with an emphasis on locating dealers and distributors.
Israel Police emphasized their ongoing commitment to combating drug-related crime, particularly focusing on locating dealers and distributors. They issued a statement highlighting the severe harm caused by such criminal activities, noting how young people can become trapped in cycles of drug use, addiction, and further criminal behavior. The Northern District Police reiterated their dedication to using all available means in this fight.
This criminal activity causes severe harm to many young people, who become trapped in a cycle of drug use, addiction, and deterioration into criminal activity.
Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.