Five men have been sentenced to a combined 34 years and six months in prison following a major investigation into a Chadderton-based county lines drug operation that trafficked heroin and cocaine worth an estimated £750,000.
The gang operated a so-called ‘MOE’ branded drug line which circulated bulk messages advertising class A substances to known users across the area. The line was found to have handled thousands of communications and facilitated the sale of approximately 8kg of illegal drugs over a six-month period in 2023.
The ringleader, Mohammed Rahman (27), of Garforth Street, was sentenced to 11 years in prison after admitting to conspiring to supply cocaine and heroin, and possessing criminal property. A search of his home uncovered over £40,000 in cash.
Four others were also jailed:
Anwar Ali (40), of Denmark Way, received a sentence of three years and six months.
Jamal Ali (22), of Bamford Street, was jailed for five years following a guilty verdict at trial.
Jason Wakeford (52), of Stanley Street, was sentenced to seven years.
Mohammed Amman (25), of Middleton Road, was jailed for eight years after pleading guilty to multiple drug offences, possession of cannabis, and possession of a weapon described as a stun-gun.
The investigation, conducted by Greater Manchester Police’s County Lines Team, began in early 2023 and culminated in simultaneous search warrants in May 2024. The five were arrested and later charged with various drug-related offences.
Detective Sergeant Leanne Banks, who led the operation, described the group as “ruthless individuals” who “acted without thought or feeling for the consequences of what they were doing.”
She added: “This was a sophisticated operation targeting vulnerable members of our community. Thanks to dedicated detective work, the offenders have now been brought to justice.”
Police are encouraging the public to report information about drug dealing in their area by contacting 101 or visiting the GMP website. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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