A major drugs ring in Greater Manchester was uncovered after a stolen car being driven by a 'runner' crashed into a bollard during a police pursuit. The driver, Hamza Rafique, fled the scene but was caught hiding in a shop, where he was arrested. Police found a plastic bag containing cannabis that he had attempted to hide, leading to the dismantling of what officers described as 'a drugs line which distributed across the Greater Manchester area'.
Two Men Sentenced at Manchester Crown Court
Louis Williams, 32, of Milne Close, Gorton, has been jailed for four years and ten months. He pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs, possession with intent to supply Class B drugs, being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs, and possession of criminal property.
Rafique, also 32 and of Stamford Road, Manchester, was jailed in July for two years and eight months after admitting possession with intent to supply Class B drugs, dangerous driving, driving otherwise in accordance with licence, driving without insurance, and possession of criminal property. Both were sentenced at Manchester Crown Court, with Williams jailed earlier this week.
Police Detail the Pursuit and Investigation
Police said the stolen car Rafique was driving was spotted in Gorton on April 25, shortly before 10pm. A short pursuit followed, during which GMP said he reached speeds of up to 60mph.
In a statement, the force said: "The driver - later identified as Rafique - soon abandoned the vehicle after colliding with a bollard. He was soon caught hiding in a shop after a foot chase, where he had attempted to hide a JD bag which contained a quantity of cannabis and a phone.
"The car was also confirmed to have been stolen just days before. Rafique was revealed to be the runner, supplying Class B cannabis to numerous people in and around Greater Manchester. Evidence discovered on Rafique's phone revealed communications with Williams - who was found to be running the line and controlling the overall selling and distribution of the drugs."
Warrants and Seizures Follow
After Williams was identified, two warrants were executed at addresses linked to him. Police went on to seize drugs and more than £6,000 in cash.
PC Collins, from the Gorton Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "This investigation came out of a proactive patrol – officers getting out in their communities as they regularly do - and seeking out criminals. Rafique's dangerous driving showed contempt and carelessness for other road users as he attempted to evade justice.
"However, his arrest led to the dismantling of this drugs line, and meant that a significant quantity of drugs were taken off the streets. Williams, who was leading the work, was later identified after phone analysis showed a significant amount of control he had over supply."
