Police in Alkmaar, in the Netherlands, found a cannabis grow of about 280 plants in a flat in July 2026, after receiving a report. A 69-year-old man was arrested. His role in the operation is still being investigated.
The plants, equipment and materials were seized and are to be destroyed. The grid operator also removed the electricity meter and cut the power, because electricity was being tapped illegally from neighbors.
The man is not named, and his nationality is not given. This is a small local story, not a conviction.
Why it matters: Cannabis is widely associated with the Netherlands, but growing it at this scale is still handled as a crime. Neighbors' reports and electricity use are how many grows are found.
Source: NH Nieuws, 2026-07-09. Forgotten Prisoner's account is based on this reporting. An arrest or charge is not proof of guilt.