Drug dealer’s stash seized after uninsured car stop in Paddock Wood
A drug operation in Paddock Wood was busted when police caught Sali Igalliu driving an uninsured Vauxhall Corsa. The 21-year-old, linked to a cocaine ring that used text messages and postcodes to distribute drugs, is now behind bars.
Uninsured car sparks police suspicion
On December 22, 2022, officers spotted Igalliu parked on Commercial Road. The car had no insurance, so they stopped him when he drove off. Igalliu looked nervous and couldn’t explain where he was headed, raising red flags. Police searched him and found a stash that sealed his fate.
Cocaine and cash found in secret hideout
Hidden behind an air vent in the car, officers uncovered 11 street deals of cocaine. They also seized £360 in cash and a mobile phone loaded with messages and postcodes tied to drug dealing. Despite claiming the drugs were for personal use, Igalliu was charged with possession with intent to supply and handling criminal property.
Sentenced to over two years in jail
Igalliu pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court on February 29, 2024. He was sentenced to two years and three months in prison, dealing a blow to the organised crime ring he was part of.
Police commit to cracking down on drug crime
“Our use of both uniformed and plainclothes officers continues to make it very hard for criminals to operate for any length of time,” said Detective Constable Nell Shortis of West Kent CID. “We’re determined to keep these individuals off the streets and bring them to justice.”
