Full Breakdown
Major Cannabis Seizure in Bolton Leads to Charges
1/12/2026, 8:08:39 AM
Overview of the Event
Two men, Musa Kala, 35, and Raheem Latif, 27, both from Bolton, have been charged with conspiracy to supply cannabis following a significant police operation that uncovered approximately two tonnes of the drug at a farm in Blackrod, Bolton. The estimated street value of the seized cannabis is around £24 million, marking it as one of the largest cannabis seizures in the UK.
Details of the Operation
The operation was executed by Greater Manchester Police on January 9, 2023, at Leigh Tenement Farm. Officers discovered the cannabis stored in sacks during a raid, which was described by Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop as a "large-scale and sophisticated illegal operation." The police emphasized that this seizure not only disrupts criminal networks but also contributes to community safety by removing a major source of harm.
Official Statements & Responses
Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop stated, "This seizure marks a major success for our officers – it removes a major source of harm, disrupts criminal networks and helps make neighbourhoods safer." He further noted that the scale of the operation reflects the increasing sophistication of organized drug gangs utilizing rural locations for large-scale cannabis production.
Criticism & Opposition
While the police hailed the operation as a success, some community members have raised concerns about the ongoing issue of drug-related crime in the area. Critics argue that despite such significant seizures, the underlying problems of drug abuse and trafficking persist, indicating a need for more comprehensive strategies beyond enforcement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He said: 'Our officers uncovered a large-scale and sophisticated illegal operation at the location, housing a significant volume of illegal drugs.” — Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop, Greater Manchester Police
What's Next
Musa Kala and Raheem Latif have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear at Manchester City Magistrates' Court on January 16, 2023. The police investigation continues as they seek to understand the broader network involved in this operation.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating drug trafficking and the complexities of organized crime in the UK.
