Drug dealer jailed for 15 years as crackdown on serious crime continues

Naqash Ali, 33, of Claremont Road, Luton, who was convicted of conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to possess a firearm, is the latest person to be jailed thanks to the work of Bedfordshire Police’s Operation Costello team, who are dedicated to tackling serious and organised crime.

Ali was stopped in a vehicle and arrested in May 2020, as the vehicle was linked to individuals suspected to be involved in a drugs conspiracy.

Three phones were recovered from the vehicle but there was initially no evidence of crime being committed and Ali was released without charge.

However, further investigations following Op Venetic, an international operation which saw law enforcement agencies access encrypted messages on Encrochat devices, it was discovered that one of these phones was being used to communicate with illegal drug and firearm suppliers.

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Examination of the previously encrypted device showed extensive involvement in the purchase and sale of multiple kilos of cocaine.

In a specific series of messages, Ali speaks with a user, and asked for two kilos of cocaine and whether he can pay £100,000 next week.

In another conversation Ali brags about having a deal line selling cocaine.

Ali was re-arrested in 2023 and sentenced on Monday (15 April) to 15 years imprisonment for being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

Ali also received two years imprisonment for the conspiracy to possess a firearm without a certificate to be served concurrently.

Messages on the Encrochat platform show Ali asking a user whether there are any handguns available for purchase.

Gary Hales, from Bedfordshire Police’s Operation Costello, said: “I’m pleased with the sentence handed out, after what was a long and complex investigation into Ali’s extensive drug dealing operation. The length of the sentence reflects the severity of Ali’s actions and the extent to which he was involved in serious and organised crime.

“We know that where there are drugs involved, violence and exploitation quickly ensue. As well as facilitating drugs worth hundreds of thousands of pounds, Ali also attempted to purchase firearms which shows his intent to harm. He was a dangerous individual who I’m glad is now behind bars for a substantial amount of time.

“This case is also reminder to all those involved in organised crime that they are not above the law, and if we don’t get you the first time, we’ll just keep going until we do. When we do get you, not only will we take your liberty we will also seek to strip you of your assets earned from your criminality.”

Further court proceedings in relation to the Proceeds of Crime Act are due to take place later this year.

Operation Costello has so far secured jail sentences totalling more than 400 years for criminals across Bedfordshire. Find out more about Operation Costello here:  https://www.beds.police.uk/police-forces/bedfordshire-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/operation-costello/