The National Police in Orihuela have detained thirteen people after dismantling a criminal network involved in indoor cannabis cultivation in occupied homes and the distribution of drugs. Two of the detainees are also accused of animal cruelty. The operation followed a wave of complaints from residents about several houses in a local parish of Orihuela, where a strong smell of cannabis had been reported.

Investigators from the Alicante Provincial Police’s Judicial Police brigades and the Orihuela station conducted long-running surveillance, noting the odour and the sound of ventilation fans. They established that the group had converted dwellings into grow rooms and had wired electricity illegally to the grid. Seven properties were searched to seize items linked to the illicit activity.

Two cannabis plantations were found in an advanced flowering phase, with around five hundred and twenty-seven plants, supported by a full lighting and ventilation system. In addition, authorities seized two firearms, a shotgun, six war-style replica weapons, precision scales, cocaine, two vehicles and six thousand eight hundred and fifty-five euros in cash. During the searches, investigators also found five dogs in a state of neglect; one had ears cut off, and the local animal charity took charge of the animals.

Eight of the detainees have been handed to the Orihuela magistrates’ court, with the remaining five facing further proceedings as the investigation continues.