London drug ring jailed for over 77 years after Met Police takedown

Six members of an organised drug ring crime network have been jailed for a total of more than 77 years after a Metropolitan Police operation exposed their large-scale supply of cannabis and cocaine across London.

The sentences followed a dramatic raid on 14 August 2024 at a residential flat on Shrubland Road, Hackney, which served as the drug ring’s safe house.

Officers uncovered more than 36 kilograms of cannabis hidden in kitchen cupboards, bathroom cabinets, and even a sofa bed. A shotgun and 21 rounds of ammunition were also recovered.

Several of the drug ring gang were caught in the act. One suspect was arrested inside the property surrounded by bags of cannabis, another was stopped as he attempted to leave in a taxi with three kilograms of the drug, while a third was detained carrying a further five kilograms.

In another instance, nearly 10 kilograms of cannabis had just been collected when police moved in.

Investigators later examined mobile phones seized from the suspects, discovering messages and images that linked them to the supply of cocaine. Photographs showed kilogram blocks of the drug valued at more than £33,000 each. In all, the street value of the drugs recovered during the operation was estimated at nearly half a million pounds.

After a five-week trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court, the men were convicted of conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs, firearms offences and possession of criminal property, depending on their level of involvement.

The longest sentence was handed to 31-year-old Julian Palushi of Walm Lane, Willesden Green, who received 20 years’ imprisonment. Others received terms ranging from eight years ten months to more than twelve years.

A seventh man, 63-year-old Kevin Buxton of Bridge Way, Muxton, was also found guilty of conspiracy to supply Class B drugs and is due to be sentenced in November.

Detective Superintendent Mike Cagney, head of Central East CID, described the case as a significant blow against organised crime.

“The firearm and the sheer quantity of drugs seized show the impact this network had on the local community. These offenders relied on fear and intimidation, but thanks to the work of my officers they are behind bars and thousands of pounds worth of drugs have been removed from our streets,” he said.

He added that the successful prosecution demonstrated the Met’s determination to dismantle dangerous criminal networks and hold offenders to account.