Bricked-Up Doors Didn't Stop the Police
The police received a tip from the public about suspicious activities at the Commercial Street building — lights on at night, a distinct odor, and the movement of vans during late hours. Closed since October 2024 after the casino chain went bankrupt, Aspers seemed like a perfect hideaway.
The police monitored the building for some time and executed a raid on Thursday at 9:00 AM. The gang had anticipated this and fortified the entry points. Many doors were bricked up, with metal bars installed. “Entry was not straightforward. Precautions were taken to keep police out. We used specialized officers to gain access,” explained Inspector Nicola Davis-Lyons from Northamptonshire Police.
Inside, a big surprise awaited them. Over 7,000 plants spanned three floors, equipped with professional lighting, irrigation, and ventilation systems. One individual, 36-year-old Mantas Pipiras, was arrested and charged with drug production and involvement in organized crime.
How Did a Poker Paradise Become a Drug Empire?
The Aspers Casino in Northampton opened in 2007, drawing players from across the UK for live games, slots, and various poker tournaments and cash games.
Its troubles began during the pandemic, leading to its closure in October 2024. Shortly after, the casino changed hands twice. It was first bought by Dominic Farhad Rossookh, who renamed it N Casino, only to sell it to 1st and Last Gaming Events, which never reopened it. The building remained empty and locked, yet fully equipped with utilities, making it an ideal cover.
The gang maximized nearly 3,000 square meters of central city space for a cannabis farm. Thousands walked past, unaware for years. “Quite bold,” admitted Inspector Davis-Lyons.
Farm Equipment at a Professional Level
Police confirmed the operation involved an organized crime group, evident by the farm's equipment worth hundreds of thousands of pounds. With an estimated three harvests per year, the farm could generate £3 to £5 million annually. Inspector Davis-Lyons emphasized: “This is not typical. Such operations often exploit vulnerable individuals under threats of violence. We aim to dismantle the entire network, not just the farm.”
The police will be onsite for 5 to 7 days to destroy the plants and secure the building. Investigations continue as they seek more group members and funding sources.
According to police reports, the farm was equipped as follows:
- Over 7,000 plants across three floors. The final count has not been announced
- Hundreds of light panels consuming energy like a small factory
- Automated irrigation systems (hoses, pumps, fertilizers)
- Ventilation systems with dozens of fans and carbon filters to combat odor
- Security measures, cameras, bricked entries, barred doors
This case highlights the risks of abandoned commercial buildings in city centers. Police urge anyone noticing suspicious activity in vacant buildings to report it to the relevant department.
Sources: Poker.Pro, ITV News, Northamptonshire Police, Northampton Chronicle, BBC
