A MAN has been jailed and fined after a house raid found approximately 300 cannabis plants at a drug factory in Maidenhead.

Altin Gjura, aged 25, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty on March 28 to one count of producing a controlled drug of class B, namely cannabis in a hearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court.

At the same court, Gjura was sentenced to a year in prison and forfeiture and destruction of the cannabis and paraphernalia on Tuesday, July 18.

The Magistrates’ also ordered Gjura to pay a statutory surcharge.

The offence occurred on March 26 when officers received intelligence that a property on Whitebeam Chase was being used to grow cannabis.

Upon entering the property, Gjura was located along with approximately 300 fully grown cannabis plants and several items used to cultivate cannabis.

He was subsequently arrested and put before a court where he was remanded until sentencing.

Investigating officer, PC Alice George from the Maidenhead Problem Solving Team, said: “Thames Valley Police remains resolutely committed to tackling drug production in our communities.

“The production of drugs cause untold harm in our communities, and following a robust investigation, Gjura has been brought to justice.

“The public can help Thames Valley Police with our fight against drug-related crime by reporting information to the force.

“You can do this either by reporting online or by calling 101, where your calls will be treated in the strictest confidence.

“For 100% anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”