Drug dealer ordered to pay back £240k of criminal gains
A drug dealer who led a heroin and crack cocaine conspiracy, making around £680,000, has been ordered to repay around a third of that amount. Tufial Akthar, also known as Mohamed Ali, aged 41, from Cardiff, was at the center of an organised crime group. The police investigation, named Operation Solidago, revealed that a total of 5.25kg of heroin and 1.5kg of cocaine were seized during the operation. The estimated value of the drugs seized ranged between £157,510 and £219,680.
The intricate web of criminal activities involving Akthar and his associates unfolded during various encounters and deals. The first interaction with the group occurred when Akthar met with Jamie Davies, Rhydian Charles, and Grant Clarke, who had traveled from Llanelli to Cardiff. Subsequent communications revealed further connections between Akthar and other members of the criminal network, including interactions with London dealer Khadar Mire.
As the investigation progressed, additional arrests were made, uncovering a network involved in the supply and distribution of class A drugs. Akthar’s residence in Roath was searched, leading to the discovery of incriminating evidence, including cash, drug paraphernalia, and high-value jewellery. Subsequent court hearings resulted in Akthar receiving a lengthy prison sentence of 17 years and six months for his involvement in the drug conspiracy.
The legal proceedings extended to other members of the criminal group, each facing charges related to drug supply and possession. The sentencing of individuals like Mire, James, Dualeh, Goth, Davies, Morris, Isaacs, Clarke, and Aslam reflected the severity of their roles in the criminal enterprise. The sentences varied in length, with individuals receiving prison terms ranging from five years to fifteen years and four months.
During the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that Akthar had benefited from his criminal activities to the sum of £684,184. However, his actual assets were valued at £244,510. Consequently, Judge Paul Hobson ordered Akthar to repay £240k as a part of the criminal gains confiscation process. The judgment signified a significant blow to Akthar and underscored the strict consequences of engaging in drug-related criminal activities.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the relentless efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and organized crime. The successful prosecution and subsequent asset recovery highlight the dedication of authorities in dismantling illicit networks and holding individuals accountable for their actions. The substantial sum to be repaid by Akthar reinforces the message that crime does not pay and that those involved will face severe repercussions.
The outcome of the case sets a precedent for future investigations and prosecutions involving drug-related crimes. It sends a clear message to criminals that their actions will not go unpunished and that law enforcement agencies will continue to pursue all avenues to disrupt and dismantle such illegal operations. The collaborative efforts of investigative teams and judicial authorities have resulted in a significant victory against drug trafficking and the associated criminal activities.