An organized crime gang operating in a Welsh city has been brought to justice after trafficking nearly three kilograms of cocaine in less than nine months. The gang members, led by Jamie Webber, 35, and Said Khan, 35, were handed a combined total of 21 years in prison for their illicit activities. The gang operated a drugs line, with Michael Cornwall, 43, Alexa Cronin, 42, and Sinead Carey, 24, recruited as drug runners to sell cocaine directly to users in Newport, Cwmbran, and Pontypool. Nabeela Kaid, 36, was also implicated in the drug trafficking ring.
The crackdown on the organized crime group was spearheaded by officers from Gwent Police’s serious and organized crime unit under Operation Biggin. During the operation, addresses in Newport were raided, and 15 mobile phones were seized as evidence. The gang members, Webber, Cornwall, Kaid, Cronin, and Carey, all pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply cocaine. They were sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on different terms, with Webber receiving a 10-year imprisonment, Cornwall five years, Kaid three years and four months, Cronin 28 months, and Carey being given a suspended prison sentence.
Commenting on the case, detective chief inspector Matthew Edwards from Gwent Police praised the collaborative effort that led to the successful investigation and subsequent prosecution of the criminals. He highlighted the detrimental impact of illegal drugs on communities, emphasizing the importance of bringing such offenders to justice to make a positive difference in society. Edwards urged the public to provide information that can assist law enforcement in tackling drug-related crimes and enhancing community safety.
The diligent work of the data analysts and digital forensics teams played a crucial role in gathering evidence against the perpetrators, underscoring the significance of modern investigative techniques in combating organized crime. The severity of the sentences handed down to the gang members reflects the commitment of the judicial system to prosecute those involved in drug trafficking and related criminal activities. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community is crucial in addressing the challenges posed by organized crime and ensuring a safer environment for all residents.
As the case concludes with the sentencing of the gang members, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug activities and uphold the rule of law. The successful outcome of Operation Biggin demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted operations in dismantling criminal networks and holding individuals accountable for their actions. Moving forward, continued vigilance and cooperation between authorities and the public will be essential in maintaining law and order and safeguarding communities from the harmful effects of drug trafficking and organized crime.