Grinning Rochdale drug boss jailed after stabbing his own dealer and raking in £370k from cocaine empire

Tuesday, 17 June 2025 12:30

By David Murphy

A man who ran a large scale drug operation from his Rochdale home and violently assaulted an associate has been jailed for more than six years

A Rochdale man who grinned as he was sentenced has been jailed for six years and three months after running a substantial drug operation and stabbing a man who worked for him.

Usman Alam, 36, of Law Street, Rochdale, was found guilty at Manchester Crown Court of being concerned in the supply of cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cannabis, and possession of cannabis with intent to supply. He was also convicted of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm (Section 20) and threats to kill.

Officers first raided Alam’s property in January 2022, discovering cannabis, weighing scales, and three mobile phones. Digital evidence revealed drug supply operations dating back to 2018, including messages referencing wholesale cocaine distribution and cannabis production across England, as well as street level deals in Greater Manchester.

An examination of Alam’s bank records showed deposits totalling £370,216 with no trace of legitimate income.

The court also heard that in 2024, Alam violently assaulted a man who had been dealing drugs for him. Accusing him of theft after a quantity of cannabis went missing, Alam headbutted the victim, struck him repeatedly with the handle of a knife, and inflicted cuts and slices. He then made threats to shoot the victim's family and bomb their homes.

Detective Inspector Richard Castley of GMP’s Serious Crime Division said: “This sentencing sends a clear message that drug-related crime will not be tolerated. Alam thought he was untouchable, his brutal attack on someone he suspected of betrayal shows how dangerous he is.

“We are committed to dismantling organised crime groups that wreak havoc across our city region and will continue to pursue offenders with the full force of the law.”

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