After evading authorities for over three years, a drug dealer was finally apprehended, thanks to a seemingly routine transaction for a car.
John Condeh, 35, hailing from High Street in Peckham, was initially arrested in July 2020 following an anonymous tip-off regarding drug dealing activities in St Leonards, East Sussex.
Upon entering the property, Police officers discovered a substantial quantity of heroin and crack cocaine stashed within the confines of a chair where Condeh was seated. Furthermore, keys found on his person led to the discovery of approximately £1,400 in cash concealed within a car.
Consequently, Condeh faced charges of possession with intent to supply heroin and crack cocaine, alongside possession of criminal property. However, he failed to appear in court, prompting a lengthy period of evasion from justice.
Efforts to locate Condeh intensified, with financial investigators eventually tracing him down in 2023 after he agreed to the purchase of a car. This vital lead prompted the circulation of the vehicle’s details to police forces nationwide.
On November 6, 2023, the vehicle in question was intercepted in south-east London, with Condeh behind the wheel. Subsequently, he was swiftly arrested, marking the end of his fugitive status.
Appearing in court on February 26 of this year, Condeh pleaded guilty to all charges levelled against him. As a result, he was sentenced to two years and eleven months behind bars.
This case underscores the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies in pursuing individuals involved in criminal activities and highlights the importance of collaboration between various investigative units in achieving successful apprehensions.
