Drug gang sentenced with leader operating from prison
Lancashire Police investigation leads to jail terms for gang members
A drug gang has been sentenced after its leader ran operations from a prison cell using a mobile phone.
Kaiser Ali directed the organisation, known as the Kes Bluey line, from HMP Altcourse.
Using an illicit mobile phone, Ali gave orders to his accomplices outside prison.
The Nawaz brothers, Umar and Usman, were based in Bolton, distributing cocaine to users in Burnley and surrounding areas.
Mohammed Masood was in charge of managing finances, ensuring street dealers were paid while also handling payments for drugs.
The sentencing follows an investigation by Lancashire Police into the gang's activities.
Kaiser Ali, 28, was sentenced to nine years and four months.
Umar Nawaz, 27, received a sentence of six years and two months, while Usman Nawaz, 25, was sentenced to four years and six months.
Mohammed Abdullah, 20, also involved, was sentenced to three years behind bars.
Mohammed Masood, 20, avoided jail time but received a 12-month suspended sentence for his role in money laundering.
All appeared in court on charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine.
Sgt Stu Peall stated:
“We will not rest in our efforts to tackle those who bring misery to our communities by dealing in illegal drugs.
“We will dismantle these gangs and put those involved before the courts.”
Operation Warrior is Lancashire's initiative against serious organised crime, part of Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw's Fighting Crime Plan.