Three men arrested with 1,751 Plants and a Gun in Montmell and Querol

Three men aged 24, 29, and 35 have been arrested by the police in Montmell and Querol for cultivating 1,751 marijuana plants and possessing a semi-automatic pistol. The agents also found a large quantity of ammunition, as well as illegal connections to the electrical network that powered the plantations.

The investigation uncovered three indoor plantations in houses modified with professional systems for cultivation and a very organized division of labor among the members of the criminal group.

Arrests and dismantling of the plantations

What exactly happened during the operation?

The Mossos d'Esquadra carried out the arrests on August 26 and 27 after a deployment that dismantled three marijuana plantations in Montmell and Querol. The homes were equipped with specific systems for air conditioning, ventilation, and lighting to maintain indoor cultivation.

During the raids, 1,751 plants in different growth stages were seized, as well as a .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol and abundant ammunition in one of the properties. The police estimate the infrastructure was worth over 60,000 euros.

What crimes are they charged with?

The detainees are being investigated for crimes against public health, belonging to a criminal group, and electricity fraud. In addition, one of them is accused of illegal possession of weapons. The fraudulent connection to the electrical network was detected in all three homes and cut off by technicians from the supply company.

Internal functioning of the criminal group

How was the group organized within Montmell and Querol?

The agents note that the criminal group had a clear division of functions: one group was in charge of managing the crops, another handled surveillance, and a third managed logistics to keep the plantations always operational.

This organization allowed for constant production throughout the year, thanks to the staggered distribution of plants according to their growth stage.

What importance does the detection of these types of groups have?

For the residents of Baix Penedès and Alt Camp, dismantling these plantations means reducing illegal trafficking and associated risks, such as dangerous electrical installations and the presence of weapons. It also highlights the police’s ability to dismantle local criminal organizations with a high degree of specialization.

Impact and judicial follow-up

What has happened to the detainees after the operation?

Two of the arrested were taken during the raids on August 26, while the third, considered the head of the group, was arrested the following day. All three appeared before the duty court in Vendrell the following Friday.

This quick arrest and judicial presentation reinforces the Mossos’ response to organized crime in the region.

What are the expectations regarding this case?

The case will follow its judicial course but has already become a clear example of the fight against illegal drug cultivation and trafficking in the area. The effects on local security and control of fraudulent electricity use are crucial for the affected citizens.

Source of the article: Editorial / Catalan News Agency