Muharem Hekali, the leader of a cocaine supply gang estimated to be worth at least £1 million, has been jailed for eight years after incriminating photos on mobile phones helped bring down his operation. The 28-year-old from Harpurhey, north Manchester, was captured in images counting bundles of cash, which detectives uncovered during an investigation.
Arrest and seizures
Hekali was arrested on Thursday, February 26 this year. Following his arrest, police executed two warrants that led to the recovery of 708g of cocaine in five plastic heat-sealed packages, a further 145g sealed in cling film, and £5,000 in cash hidden under a cushion on a sofa. Detectives estimate that during his offending, Hekali produced over 53,400 bags of cocaine with an estimated street value of over £1,672,000.
Court proceedings
On Wednesday, Hekali, of Connington Avenue, Harpurhey, was sentenced at Bolton Crown Court after admitting conspiracy to supply class A drugs, possession with intent to supply class A drugs, and possession of criminal property, namely cash. Two other gang members, Nikolaos Giousoufidis, 40, and Christos Kompos, 46, both of Market Street, Atherton, were each jailed for three-and-a-half years in April for conspiracy to supply cocaine and possessing criminal property. Images recovered from their phones also included evidence of drug supply.
Police statement
Detective Sergeant Matt Higham, of GMP's Wigan division, said: “This sentencing reflects the seriousness of Hekali’s actions and the harm that drug supply brings to our communities. During our investigation it was clear that Hekali was the leader of an organised crime group who was leading others to sell class A drugs across the district. Our officers work tirelessly to identify and disrupt those who believe they can deal drugs in our communities without consequence. I hope this result reassures the public that as a force, we are committed to removing harmful substances from our streets and bringing offenders before the courts. Our message is simple: if you choose to engage in drug supply or criminal financial activity, we will identify you, we will take action, and you will be held accountable.”
Appeal to public
Anyone who has concerns about drug dealing in their local area can contact GMP via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they wish to remain anonymous.
