Four members of Bradford crime gang jailed over plot to hide cocaine in imported fruit
Approximately 92kg of the Class A drug was brought into the UK hidden among shipments of papaya
Four members of a Bradford gang have been jailed for a combined 86 years, over a plot to import more than £9m of cocaine hidden inside consignments of fruit.
Approximately 92kg of the Class A drug was brought into the UK hidden among shipments of papaya, which was called and taken to a tyre yard in Low Moor to be divided up in October 2023.
The yard was controlled by Levi Depass, with 34 year old Jack Stalley bringing the drugs to the yard under the direction of leader Sanchez Heffernan.
Approximately 35kg of cocaine was then handed off to 24 year old Adil Ditta, who was tailed by police before abandoning his VW Golf with the drugs still inside.
The remaining 57kg of the drug were taken to the Shipley area by Gary Sinclair.
The group sentenced on Friday included:
Sanchez Heffernan, 34, formerly of Denholme House Farm, Denholme - jailed for 29 years.
Levi Depass, 37, formerly of West Royd Road Shipley, was sentenced to 27 years. Depass was also given a 13-year sentence to run concurrently for his involvement in the supply of 7.5 kilos of cocaine linked to a separate case between March and May 2020.
Matthew Jackson, 35, formerly of Villa Road Bingley - he was described as having a 'significant role' in the conspiracy. He received 17 years.
Jack Stalley, 34 and formerly of Downside Crescent, Allerton - sentenced to 13 years.
Three men were sentenced at Bradford Crown Court last year and earlier this year, including:
Dominic Lowe, 32 and of HM Prison Holme House, Stockton-on-Tees - received eight years for supplying Class A drugs.
Garry Sinclair, 39, formerly of Cliffe Lane, Gomersal - sentenced to 10 years after admitting possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and dangerous driving.
Adil Ditta, 24, formerly of Raven Street, Nelson, Lancashire - handed 8 years after admitting possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and dangerous driving.
Earlier this year, Heffernan and six other men were jailed in relation to separate drug offences.
Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Inspector Chris Rukin of West Yorkshire Police said: “These individuals played leading roles in a sophisticated criminal network, and their lengthy prison sentences reflect the seriousness of their crimes.
“We’re proud of the tireless work by our officers and partners to dismantle this operation and protect our communities from the serious harm caused by illegal drugs.”
“This case sends a clear message: if you choose to profit from the misery caused by drug trafficking, you will be pursued and you will face justice.”