In Haschheim, authorities seize numerous cannabis plants.
Munich-based entrepreneur Václav Wenzel Cerveny finds himself under scrutiny following a significant police raid on three of his stores last Thursday. The targeted locations were part of Cerveny's Natur Erlebniswelt chain, known for its operations across Bavaria. Cerveny expresses feelings of being unfairly singled out, citing 30 raids in the past six years, 17 criminal proceedings, and 15 dropped cases.
During the raid, police allegedly seized approximately 1400 cannabis cuttings of strains such as "Amnesia," containing THC levels of 22 to 24 percent. The production facilities in Aschheim have been emptied, with all cultivation tents removed. This large-scale action has significantly impacted Cerveny's livelihood, as spring sales of cuttings for private home cultivation account for up to 50 percent of his annual turnover.
The police, collaborating closely with the Munich Public Prosecutor's Office I, suspect Cerveny of engaging in commercial cannabis dealing. Investigations are also ongoing against 12 employees in the Aschheimer Natur Erlebniswelt's sales department. Data and electronic devices have been secured as part of the ongoing investigation, which began in November 2024.
Despite the ongoing investigation, no reason for Cerveny's immediate detention has been established. Approximately 1487 plants have been confiscated, ranging from just a few centimeters to over a meter in height.
Amid these developments, Cerveny is rumored to be considering a merger with the Cannabis Social Club Minga (CSC) in eastern Munich, which similarly operates without a license for a legal cannabis club. The CSC is currently embroiled in a lawsuit against the health ministry for refusing to issue them a license, but a hearing date hasn't been set yet.
Erdinc Tuncer from CSC Minga revealed plans for Cerveny to relocate his equipment to CSC Minga's Forstinning location. Both parties are reportedly discussing a collaboration that could mutually benefit them, as CSC Minga has already leased a 1000 square meter warehouse in Forstinning since July 2024 for such purposes.
Finance plays a crucial role in Cerveny's Natur Erlebniswelt chain, as the spring sales of cannabis cuttings account for up to 50 percent of his annual turnover. The ongoing police investigation, suspecting Cerveny of engaging in commercial cannabis dealing, poses significant threats to his business and financial stability.
