Bedfordshire Crime Rings Busted: Over 200 Years of Jail Time Handed Down
Bedfordshire’s darkest criminal networks have been smashed following the takedown of Encrochat, an encrypted messaging platform used by crooks nationwide. Thanks to a landmark police crackdown, more than 200 years of prison sentences have now been handed out.
Operation Costello: The Sting That Shook Organised Crime
Launched in 2020, Operation Costello emerged after UK forces cracked the Encrochat encryption – a tool designed to keep villains’ communications secret. This breakthrough let officers read messages about drug shipments and weapons deals in real time.
Last week, three more drug dealers copped stiff jail terms, totaling over 36 years, for running a vast cocaine network smuggling 200 kilos worth around £8 million.
- Mohammed Shaukat, 38, from Luton – 13 years 5 months
- Ashley Cain, 32, from Luton – 7 years 6 months
- Shane Dann, 31, from Cranfield – 15 years
All three pleaded guilty to conspiring to supply Class A drugs. Cain acted as a courier, ferrying drugs up and down the country, playing the “dirty work” for Shaukat and Dann.
Police Praise Operation Costello’s Success
“Bad things come in threes – and this sentencing marks another win for our dedicated team fighting high-level crime,” said Linda Carson, Operation Costello Lead Manager at Bedfordshire Police. “Over 200 years behind bars shows our relentless fight against dealers ruining communities.”
Detective Superintendent Nick Skipworth, who heads the operation, added:
“We’re targeting the kingpins behind drugs and violence. Shutting down this gang sends a clear message: we’ll find you, even on encrypted phones, and put you away. We need local help—if you see suspicious activity, report it.”
How You Can Help Tackle Organised Crime
Bedfordshire Police urge anyone with information about drug dealing or organised crime to come forward. Tips can be given anonymously via:
- Online police reporting tool
- Calling 101
- Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111
Reports help police build intelligence even if no immediate action is taken.
For more on cracking down on crime in Bedfordshire, visit Bedfordshire Against Violence and Exploitation (BAVEX).
What Is Operation Costello?
Operation Costello is Bedfordshire Police’s largest-ever assault on organised crime. It’s part of the national Operation Venetic, focusing on criminals using encrypted phones for illegal dealings.
Breaking the Encrochat code exposed some of the UK’s most dangerous networks. Since then, 200 years’ worth of sentences have been dished out, shutting down drug and weapon supply chains across the country.
