Hi-tech cannabis cultivation up in smoke

Hydroponics is the science of growing plants  in water. The water would contain all the nutrients contained in soil and the plants would be able to grow. The use of this technology in a garage to cultivate cannabis let to thirty-three year-old, John Busuttil being remanded in custody. Inspector Dennis Theuma explained to the court, how the accused invested in a hydroponic system costing around 1000. Through the use of this apparatus which relies on water, the cannabis grows quicker and is of better quality. The police seized between 18 and 21 plants, which were cultivated without the need of soil. In the presence of his parents and girlfriend, with eyes turned down John Busuttil pleaded not guilty. He also faces charges of trafficking as the quantity of drugs found was not for personal use. The prosecution objected to the granting of bail. Inspector Theuma held he was certain the accused would not abscond but the investigations are still ongoing. Busuttil admitted and collaborated with the police, but investigators believe there are two other men involved in the case. Defence lawyer Arthur Azzopardi requested bail, arguing this was a straightforward case. Busuttil, who has a clean conduct, was running a business which took a bad turn. Should the accused be found guilty he will be pushed according to law but denying him bail will simply make him and his family suffer. Magistrate Doreen Clarke remanded the accused in custody. Inspector Dennis Theuma prosecuted. Lawyers Arthur Azzopardi and Kathleen Grima appeared for the accused.