iStockTwo brothers were caught in a £3m cannabis factory raid after locals complained of a strong smell.
Armend and Eli Abrahimi – aged 28 and 30 – were caught after police swooped following reports of a stench of the drug coming from an industrial unit in West Calder in West Lothian in September 2024.
Officers went on to find windows had been blacked out and that electrics had been tampered with.
Once inside, one constable climbed a ladder to discover a sophisticated set-up of lights, air filters and fans to help grow cannabis.
There were others areas in the unit including “living quarters” as well as storage for equipment to be kept.
Officers further seized cash, a mobile phone, paperwork and notes linking the brothers to the unit.
Armend’s DNA was also discovered on a thermometer.
The High Court in Glasgow heard on Monday police found a total of 733 plants at the site.
Prosecutor Ali Murray said: “They noted this cultivation appeared to have been conducted by skilled growers with prior experience.”
Mr Murray stated the maximum potential value of the haul was £2,983,310.
The siblings were arrested in January 2025 at each of their addresses in Falkirk, Stirlingshire.
Police also found keys to another property in the town in Eli’s home.
This was later searched and another cannabis farm was discovered.
A total of 160 plants were inside valued at a potential £53,760.
Armend’s fingerprints and DNA were traced at the property.
The court heard the pair were originally from Albania.
Armend’s Home Office status at the time of his arrest was “liable to be removed” from the UK.
The older brother meantime was marked the same with the added note he was an “immigration offender” and “failed asylum seeker”.
Eli had previously been guilty of intent to supply cocaine.
The pair admitted to the cannabis farm charges on Monday.
Lord Arthurson remanded them in custody as sentencing was adjourned until June.
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