Drug Dealer Jailed for Nearly Three Years in Ipswich
A young man from Ipswich has been locked up for 33 months after being caught with cocaine and cash linked to drug dealing.
Algert Lama Caught Red-Handed on London Road
Algert Lama, 22, of London Road, Ipswich, pleaded guilty at Ipswich Crown Court to possession of cocaine with intent to supply, involvement in supply, and possession of criminal property.
The conviction follows an incident on 16 February 2024 when Suffolk’s Sentinel Team spotted Lama securing a bike near Millers Fish and Chip shop. Officers tried to speak to him but he dropped the bike and ran off through the retail park.
Police chased Lama along a path by the River Gipping before catching him on West End Road. Before being stopped, he discarded £200 in cash into nearby bushes, which was later found by a police dog.
Big Haul Seized From Home and Phone
At a search of Lama’s top-floor flat, officers found his bank card, phone sales agreement, 15 grip-seal bags of cocaine, a knife, and £590 in cash. His mobile phone was also seized. Messages on the device revealed drug supply activity dating back to 1 January 2024.
Sentinel Team Fighting Organised Crime in Suffolk
Suffolk Constabulary’s Operation Sentinel teams, set up in 2019, patrol the county’s roads to disrupt organised crime and boost police presence.
If you suspect drug dealing or think vulnerable people are being targeted, report it online at suffolk.police.uk/tell-us, call 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
