On Wednesday 14 October 2026, as part of Operation Forefront across Worcestershire, West Mercia Police forced entry into a disused factory off Birmingham Road on an industrial estate in Kidderminster.[1][2] Officers found a sophisticated cannabis set-up across several rooms, with hydroponics systems, growing chemicals and extractor fans.[1][2][3] Police estimated the farm at about £1.2 million.[1][2][3]

Two men aged 44 and 32 were arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis.[1][2] The next day West Mercia Police charged Lucas Povilonis, 32, of Accrington Road, Burnley, and Arunas Janusonis, 44, of Berry Street, Burnley, with being concerned in the production of cannabis.[4][3]

At Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 15 October both indicated guilty pleas.[3] The case was sent to Worcester Crown Court for a sentencing hearing listed for 12 November, and both men were remanded in custody.[3]