Two drug dealers have been jailed after cocaine was imported in the post from Colombia. The pair were caught after the secret communications network they used was smashed.
The North West Regional Organised Crime Unit said in a statement that Ian Cary, 49, from Blackley, Manchester, used the handle "WHEREAREYOU" to bring drugs into the UK via the postal service and ports using Encrochat to send messages to associates and customers.
Operation Drum was launched after law enforcement officials in Europe managed to crack the Encrochat service. The system was being used by criminals involved in serious and organised crime to carry out their business. READ MORE: Law change could see more fines handed out to drivers for 'moving traffic offences' Cary, of Osterley Road, Manchester and Matthew Record, 39, of Pembrey Way, Halewood were sentenced to 9 years and 9 months and 6 years and 9 months in prison, respectively, at Manchester Crown Court today.
They both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and Cary also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import controlled drugs.
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