Yavne man indicted for running cannabis-growing operation, 423 kg. of drugs found

Jerusalem Post/Israel News/Crime in IsraelDuring a raid, Israel Police also seized documents, thousands of shekels in cash, and extensive equipment allegedly used to cultivate the cannabis.Follow us on GoogleA cannabis-growing operation raided by Israel Police in Migdal.(photo credit: POLICE SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)ByYOAV ETIELJULY 30, 2026 02:23A 57-year-old man from Yavne was indicted for running a cannabis-growing operation containing approximately 423 kilograms of the drug out of a rented villa in Migdal.During a raid, Israel Police also seized documents, thousands of shekels in cash, and extensive equipment allegedly used to cultivate the cannabis, including fans, blowers, timers, water pumps, irrigation systems, and temperature gauges.The suspect, David Khondiashvili, remains in custody, and at an additional hearing held on Tuesday, Judge Hana Sabag ordered that a detention assessment report be prepared in his case.According to the indictment, Khondiashvili illegally connected the villa to the electricity grid by bypassing the electricity meter with a temporary cable, allegedly stealing about NIS 159,000 in electricity. The Northern District Attorney's Office has requested that he remain in custody until the conclusion of the legal proceedings.His attorney, Yaron Porer, told Walla that his client "has taken full responsibility for his actions." According to Porer, Khondiashvili has no criminal record and suffers from a complex medical condition, and he intends to seek his client's release as soon as possible.Israel Police car (credit: YOSSI ALONI/MAARIV)Cannabis-laboratory established after vacation cabin complex failedDuring the court hearing, Porer added that Khondiashvili had established a vacation cabin complex at the site, but the business failed because of the war and the resulting economic difficulties. "Unfortunately, he decided to set up a laboratory," the attorney said."Israel Police will continue to use all means at its disposal in the fight against the scourge of drugs, with an emphasis on locating dealers and distributors,” Northern District Police said in a statement."This criminal activity causes severe harm to many young people, who become trapped in a cycle of drug use, addiction, and deterioration into criminal activity."Follow us on Google