In a significant crackdown on organized crime, a gang responsible for one of the largest cocaine seizures ever in the UK has been sentenced. The group’s attempt to smuggle approximately £200 million worth of cocaine disguised in banana shipments from Colombia was uncovered by law enforcement in 2021.
The operation initially came to light in February 2021 when undercover officers intercepted the illegal shipment at Portsmouth Port. The police discovered the cocaine camouflaged among crates of bananas, a common tactic used by drug traffickers due to the fruit’s perishability, which calls for expedited processing.
Agro Food Ltd, a legitimate business dealing in fresh produce, became a front for criminal activities when it changed ownership in December 2020. Petko Zhutev, a Bulgarian national, had acquired the company with the intention of using it as a cover for importing drugs. Unbeknownst to Zhutev, the authorities removed the cocaine and replaced it with dummy crates containing bananas and listening devices before the shipment reached the distribution warehouse in Edmonton.
The police executed a raid on the warehouse, discovering some of the dummy crates opened and suspiciously set aside. A loaded black Turkish Ozkursan revolver was also found on the premises, adding to the gravity of the charges against the gang members.
Legal proceedings at the Old Bailey led to the conviction of several individuals involved in the smuggling operation. Ghergii Diko and Bruno Kuci pled guilty to importing Class A drugs and possessing firearms, while Erik Muci and Olsi Ebeja were found guilty following a trial. Muci, identified as a key organizer, received a 26-year sentence for smuggling and an additional seven years for drug distribution.
Bruno Kuci, described by the National Crime Agency (NCA) as a ‘trusted member of the operation,’ was sentenced to 21 years. Ghergii Diko, an accomplice from Albania who previously worked as a mechanic, was sentenced to 18 years. Petko Zhutev, after changing his plea to guilty in September, was sentenced to 27 years.
Olsi Ebeja, tasked as the lookout and driver, was found guilty of smuggling but the court did not reach a verdict on drug distribution charges. He received a 17-year sentence. Judge Rebecca Trowler KC, during the sentencing, emphasized the organized and international nature of the crime.
The authorities, including the Crown Prosecution Service, are now pursuing the recovery of financial gains from the criminal activities.
The sentencing of this gang marks a significant victory in the battle against organized crime and drug trafficking in the UK. The case underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in tackling international drug smuggling networks and highlights the importance of vigilance and coordinated operations in combating such threats.
Source: BBC
