Asti – The Carabinieri have uncovered a large marijuana plantation in the province of Asti and arrested a suspect believed to be responsible. In a remote warehouse in Coassolo Torinese, investigators found over 1,200 plants in various stages of growth. The plantation was professionally equipped with lighting and ventilation systems and is said to have an illegal market value of over one million euros.
The discovery was made as part of an investigation launched in January 2026 by the Asti Provincial Command of the Carabinieri, under the direction of the Asti Public Prosecutor’s Office. The investigation targets a suspected Albanian criminal organization that is alleged to be involved in drug trafficking and illegal weapons possession and is said to have ties to a nightclub in Asti.
Extensive Investigation Into Drug Gang
As early as April 20, 2026, the Carabinieri had arrested a 47-year-old Albanian man in Asti, seizing 22 kilograms of cocaine, five stolen handguns—one of which had its serial number filed off—as well as a homemade silencer and over 200 rounds of ammunition, including military-grade ammunition. The value of the seized cocaine was estimated at several million euros. As the investigation progressed, five additional Albanian nationals were identified and charged on July 21, 2026, who are also alleged to have been involved in the illegal activities.
On October 20, 2026, the Carabinieri conducted 13 searches in Asti, surrounding municipalities, and Coassolo Torinese. Special units such as the SOS teams, the API task force, drug-detection dogs, and technical support from the ROS were deployed. Small amounts of drugs and 100 rounds of ammunition were found on two of the individuals searched. The biggest success, however, was the discovery of the marijuana plantation in Coassolo Torinese.
At the scene, the Carabinieri arrested an Albanian citizen, who is registered as a resident of Asti, on suspicion of being the gardener. He was taken to the Ivrea prison. The warehouse and all the equipment were seized. Experts from the national power grid estimated that the plantation’s illegal power supply consumed between 80 and 100 kilowatt-hours per day. The accused are presumed innocent.
