An organised crime gang led by a promising footballer has been apprehended with a significant amount of cocaine worth £300,000 in Newport. The gang members were found with a substantial quantity of cocaine and crack cocaine during a police raid. The leader of the gang, Armani Brown, 26, who used the alias Emporio Armani in drug dealings, attempted to flee but was captured by officers. The house where the gang was operating had been transformed for drug preparation, with drugs found in various locations.
It was revealed in court that a total of 4kg of crack cocaine and cocaine were seized from the property, with an estimated street value exceeding £400,000. The house was equipped with tools for drug adulteration, including gas canisters, weighing scales, and packaging materials. Two other individuals, Ahmed Hassan, 22, and Philip Royal, 55, were also arrested in connection with the operation.
Evidence retrieved from a blue iPhone linked the gang members to drug trafficking activities, with photographs showing large quantities of cocaine. Brown, who referred to himself as Emporio Armani in communications, was found to be owed around £47,000 based on a tick list found on the phone. Royal was identified as the courier responsible for transporting drugs from Southend-on-Sea to Newport.
During the sentencing hearing, Brown received a seven-year and eight-month prison term, while Hassan and Royal were both sentenced to five years and seven months in prison. In their defence, the lawyers for the defendants highlighted their lack of prior convictions and personal circumstances. Brown, once a promising footballer, expressed deep regret over the turn of events in his life, Hassan had obtained qualifications during his time in custody, and Royal wished to make amends and move forward with his life.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of organised crime and the consequences individuals face when involved in illicit drug trafficking activities. The successful police operation in Newport has disrupted a significant drug operation and taken dangerous substances off the streets, contributing to a safer community for residents.