Motorway traffic stop saw police uncover £2m drug operation with £480,000 stuffed in suitcase

Police uncovered a £2 million drug operation during a routine motorway traffic stop, revealing a shocking stash of narcotics and cash. Gym owner Lee Ablitt and doorman Christopher Thompson were found to be involved in a large-scale steroid distribution network, with drugs worth millions seized from a self-storage unit in Wales. The discovery came after Ablitt was stopped on the M56 motorway for driving while disqualified and officers found boxes of Class C drugs in his possession. Further investigations led police to storage units in Rhyl and other locations in northwest England where they uncovered over a million steroid tablets, liquid steroids, and a suitcase containing nearly £500,000 in cash.

Evidence recovered from Ablitt’s phone indicated Thompson’s involvement in the operation, with him sending lists of drugs requested by customers to Ablitt. The seized drugs were valued by a police expert at between £1.59 million and £2.1 million. Ablitt confessed to acquiring and supplying Class C drugs, as well as possessing criminal property, while Thompson admitted to similar charges. Both defendants were sentenced by Judge Rhys Rowlands, with Ablitt receiving a five-year jail term and Thompson sentenced to 33 months in prison for their roles in the drug conspiracy.

The court heard that Ablitt, who had a history of bodybuilding and steroid use, had become addicted to the drugs. Despite his physical appearance, he struggled with health issues like diabetes, body image, and confidence problems. Thompson, on the other hand, held two jobs in the security industry and expressed regret for his involvement in the drug operation. Prosecutors emphasized the dangers of controlled substances like steroids and highlighted the harmful effects they can have on individuals’ health.

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The Crown Prosecution Service praised the guilty pleas from both men, stating that the strong evidence presented had led to their conviction and subsequent sentencing. An upcoming Proceeds of Crime Act hearing in May will address the financial gains made from the illegal drug activity. The case shed light on the significant risks associated with large-scale drug operations and the impact they can have on communities. The uncovering of this operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to tackle drug trafficking and criminal enterprises in the region.

The sentencing of Ablitt and Thompson sends a clear message about the consequences of engaging in illegal drug distribution. Their involvement in the drug conspiracy not only jeopardised public health but also undermined the integrity of law and order. The discovery of such a substantial amount of drugs and cash underscores the importance of continued vigilance and enforcement against drug-related crimes. Authorities remain committed to identifying and dismantling drug networks to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The fight against drug trafficking is an ongoing battle that requires collaborative efforts from law enforcement and the public to combat the scourge of illegal narcotics in society.