A 31-year-old man has been sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty of dealing heroin and crack cocaine in Portsmouth.
Kebba Faye, of Carpathia Drive, Southampton, was arrested on Tuesday, 5 March by officers from Portsmouth’s Priority Crime Team after being spotted interacting with individuals suspected of drug-related activity on Britannia Road North. The officers observed two individuals acting suspiciously, believed to be waiting to purchase Class A drugs. Faye was later seen approaching one of the individuals before entering and quickly exiting an address on Talbot Road.
Officers attempted to stop Faye on the street, but he fled the scene and was subsequently arrested. During the arrest, a sock containing 30-40 wraps of suspected Class A drugs, along with £400 in cash and a phone, was recovered.
Faye was charged with possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine and found guilty of both offences following a four-day trial at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday, 16 August. He was sentenced to seven years in prison at the same court on Friday, 6 September.
PC Sam Davy from Portsmouth’s Priority Crime Team commented on the case, saying:
“Faye’s sentence is a direct result of the proactive work being undertaken by the Priority Crime Team in the city to disrupt the supply of drugs. We will not tolerate this kind of behaviour in Portsmouth. Our message to those involved in the supply of drugs is simple: we will relentlessly pursue you until you face a day in court.”
PC Davy also highlighted the harm that drug supply causes to communities, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to make the city a hostile environment for drug dealers.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious drug-related activity to the police, which helps build intelligence and take necessary action. Reports can be made by calling 101, through the Hampshire Constabulary website, or anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Spotting the Signs of Drug Activity
The police urge the public to be vigilant and report signs that may indicate someone is involved in drug supply, including:
- Frequent unexplained absences from school or home.
- Travel to distant places alone.
- Sudden wealth, new clothes, or mobile phones.
- Increased phone activity.
- Carrying or selling drugs.
- Association with weapons or individuals with weapons.
- Relationships with older, controlling people.
- Unexplained injuries.
- Secrecy or unusual behaviour.
- Signs of fear or self-harm.
Authorities remain committed to tackling drug-related crimes and protecting communities from the harm and misery caused by drug supply.
