Albanian Brothers Jailed for Cannabis Factory in West Lothian
Two brothers from Albania, Armend and Eli Abrahimi, aged 28 and 30 respectively, have been sentenced after operating a cannabis factory valued at £3 million in West Lothian.
Their arrest followed reports in September 2024 of a strong smell emanating from an industrial unit located in West Calder. Upon investigation, police discovered 733 cannabis plants inside the unit. A subsequent search of a property owned by Eli Abrahimi uncovered an additional 160 cannabis plants.
Both brothers pleaded guilty at the High Court in Glasgow and were remanded in custody pending sentencing scheduled for June.
Details of the Operation
The court was informed that the windows of the West Lothian industrial unit had been blacked out and the electrical system had been tampered with. Inside, officers found a sophisticated cultivation setup including specialized lighting, air filters, and fans designed to facilitate cannabis growth. The premises also contained living quarters and storage areas for equipment.
Prosecution and Evidence
Prosecutor Ali Murray stated:
"This cultivation appeared to have been conducted by skilled growers with prior experience."
Police seized cash, a mobile phone, and paperwork linking the brothers to the industrial unit. Additionally, DNA evidence was found on a thermometer used in the operation.
Background and Immigration Status
The siblings were arrested in January 2025 at their residences in Falkirk. The court heard that both men are originally from Albania.
At the time of his arrest, Armend Abrahimi's Home Office status was recorded as "liable to be removed" from the UK. Eli Abrahimi held the same status but was also classified as an "immigration offender" and a "failed asylum seeker." Furthermore, Eli had a prior conviction for intent to supply cocaine.
