Members of a crime gang involved in a £72 million cocaine conspiracy have been ordered to pay back a mere £2,500. The gang was responsible for transporting class A drugs into South Wales and engaged in drug dealing on a significant scale. The enterprise, based in Merthyr Tydfil, included individuals from various roles within the distribution network, spanning from the north of England to Merthyr Tydfil.
During an investigation conducted by the regional organised crime unit Tarian, authorities seized almost 10kg of cocaine and 5kg of heroin, with an estimated street value exceeding £1.5 million. The gang’s operation encompassed individuals tasked with courier services, dealing, wholesale distribution, and storage of class A substances. At the helm of this illicit operation was Kerry Evans, 35, who claimed involvement in the sale of an estimated 600kg of heroin, cocaine, or a combination thereof over 12 months.
The wholesale value of the drugs was estimated to be between £13.8 million and £19.2 million, potentially reaching £64 million to £72 million when broken down for street deals. Evans, described as a “regional manager,” held a top-tier position within the gang’s hierarchy, overseeing and coordinating numerous drug deals. Lloyd Jones, 30, another key player in the enterprise, was found in possession of 5kg of heroin, which he picked up using a crane in March 2023.
Jones, along with Jason Flannigan, 47, were integral members of the gang, providing logistical support and drug supply respectively. Evans, Jones, and Flannigan were among the individuals sentenced to imprisonment for their involvement in the drug conspiracy. A Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) hearing at Cardiff Crown Court revealed that Jones and Flannigan had benefited substantially from their criminal activities, despite possessing limited assets.
The court directed Jones to repay £67 of the £590,168 he benefitted from, while Flannigan was ordered to pay £2,476 of the £143,471 he accrued. Further POCA hearings involving Heather Flannigan, Jason’s accomplice, and Kerry Evans are scheduled. The Flannigans and Evans face charges related to conspiracy to supply class A drugs and concealing criminal property, with corresponding sentences handed down by the court.
The sentencing and asset recovery processes indicate a crackdown on organised crime activities, aiming to dismantle networks fueling drug trafficking and associated criminal enterprises. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies such as Tarian underscore a commitment to combatting drug-related crimes and securing communities against the scourge of illicit substances. As legal proceedings unfold, the impact of dismantling such criminal networks resonates across Wales, highlighting the persistent efforts to uphold law and order.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of drug trafficking and the complex web of individuals involved in sustaining such criminal operations. Through stringent legal action and asset recovery measures, authorities signal a zero-tolerance approach to drug-related crimes, seeking to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks at their core. While the individuals involved face consequences for their actions, the broader aim remains to safeguard communities and ensure a safer, drug-free environment for all.