Trio Involved in ‘Tony’ Cocaine Line Sentenced in Major UK Police Success
Trio Behind “Tony” Cocaine Line Sentenced Jonid Cufaj, Julian Cufaj, and Urim Peraj have been sentenced for their roles in the “Tony” cocaine distribution network, which ran from Essex to Eastbourne, marking a significant crackdown on drug distribution networks by UK police forces.
This sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on January 31 is a key achievement in the ongoing efforts to tackle the distribution of class A drugs in Eastbourne. The investigation that led to the arrests of Jonid, Julian, and Urim showcased the dedication of police forces to fight drug-related crime within communities.
Chief Inspector Di Lewis praised the collaborative effort involving Essex Police, the Metropolitan Police, and Sussex’s Neighbourhood Enforcement Team, which was instrumental in bringing down the “Tony” drug line. This operation was part of wider initiatives, including Project Adder and Operation Orochi, aimed at cutting off County Lines drug operations that significantly impact local communities.
The investigation revealed how the Cufaj brothers coordinated the supply chain, with Urim Peraj distributing in Eastbourne. The seizure of drugs and mobile phones was critical in securing convictions against the trio, demonstrating the police’s strategic approach to disrupting the drug supply networks.
Jonid Cufaj was sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison for his involvement in supplying class A drugs, while Julian Cufaj and Urim Peraj also received significant sentences for their participation. This outcome sends a strong message about the consequences of engaging in drug trafficking.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Trial Begins for 16-Year-Old in Brighton Murder Case
A complex legal battle unfolds as a young defendant pleads not guilty to murder and multiple assault charges In a case that has captured the attention of Brighton and surrounding communities, a 16-year-old boy from Southwick is set to stand trial today, February 19th, at Brighton Crown Court for the murder of 17-year-old Mostafa Momand. The trial, presided over by High Court judge Mr. Justice Adam Constable, comes after the defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges in a previous court appearance via video link at Lewes Crown Court on December 15th.
17-year-old Mustafa Momand Alongside the accusation of murder, related to the fatal stabbing of Mostafa Momand on Queen’s Road, Brighton, on October 5th, the teenager is also facing charges for allegedly threatening an individual named Steven Slark with a machete and a hammer in separate incidents in Hove and Southwick, respectively. Additionally, he is accused of possessing a knife on the same day of Momand’s tragic death.
These allegations have led to a complex case, underscoring a series of violent events that have shaken the local community. Judge Christine Laing, the honorary recorder of Brighton and Hove, has remanded the accused in custody ahead of what promises to be a closely watched trial.
Brighton stabbing victim identified as Mustafa Momand Read more on www.Sussex.News
Mechanic who had secret life running child abuse sites on the dark web is jailed
A mechanic has been jailed for creating child sexual abuse websites which were moderated by a doctor from Lewisham.
Nathan Bake, 28, from Cheshire, was the head moderator of a site called The Annex which glorified the most extreme kind of abuse, including the sexual abuse of babies and toddlers.
He was responsible for managing around 30 staff members who worked to ensure the smooth running of these sites.
One of those staff members was 33-year-old Dr Kabir Garg, of Station Road in Ladywell.
Garg, who worked as a psychiatrist, was arrested at his flat in November 2022, the site was open on his laptop and he was logged into his moderator account.
As well as enforcing the rules of the site, Garg provided users with advice on how to share links to child sexual abuse material while evading law enforcement.
Over 7,000 images and videos of child abuse were recovered, displaying that Garg had a clear sexual interest in children.
On his laptop were a number of academic papers showing he was fully aware of the impact of child sexual abuse, including one titled ‘Effects and Aftermath of Rape’.
In June last year Garg was jailed for six years.
Dr Garg (Image: NCA)
Today (February 14, 2024) his boss, Bake, was jailed for 16 years after he pleaded guilty to 12 offences.
Bake and the other moderators would advise members on techniques to evade law enforcement detection, and encourage them to keep the site busy by sharing links to child abuse content.
In one post recovered by the NCA, Bake said: ‘Come on people, Show us what you’ve got for HAPPY HOUR. Show us the boys and girls that turn you on the most’.
Daniel Waywell, Senior Investigating Officer from the National Crime Agency, said: “Bake was one of a select number of individuals that played a vital role in ensuring The Annex continued to run and was able to facilitate child sexual abuse on a global scale.
“He started as a user himself, but worked his way up the rankings by actively sharing a substantial amount of material and encouraging the discussion of horrific abuse, thus gaining the trust of other moderators.
“Such was his dedication to this global community of paedophiles that he also committed his time, on top of his day job as a mechanic, to running and setting up other dark web sites that assisted their offending.
“Sites such as these directly and openly encourage users to commit sexual offences against children, and those who run or access them assume they are protected by anonymity.
“However, the NCA has the determination and technical capability to target those who use the dark web to endanger and harm children. We work closely with international partners to ensure offenders are identified and brought to justice.”
Robbery Suspect Detained in Worthing: Matthew Maule Faces March trial
A suspect involved in a robbery and knife-related offences in Worthing has been detained pending trial.
Following a robbery alarm at a Findon Road petrol station in Worthing around 5am on February 8, police initiated an investigation. An employee reported a robbery at the location, noting the perpetrator had fled.
Additionally, there was a report of unrelated criminal damage in Worthing on the same day.
The police later apprehended a man for his alleged involvement in the robbery and for carrying a knife in public.
Sussex Police have charged 38-year-old Matthew Maule of Gravits Lane, Bognor, with one count of robbery, two counts of carrying a knife in public, and one count of criminal damage.
Maule was presented before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on February 12, where he was ordered to remain in custody.
He is scheduled to appear at Lewes Crown Court on March 11 to respond to the charges.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Thief Jailed for Stealing Wallet at Gatwick Airport
A thief who stole a wallet at Gatwick Airport has been jailed for eight months.
Lloyd Edwards, 37, formerly of Haywood Street in Walworth, entered a shop in the North Terminal and stole a wallet from a staff area.
He then went on a spending spree at a nearby shop.
The incident took place at 8pm on February 10 last year.
Edwards, who is unemployed, appeared at Lewes Crown Court on January 19 where he admitted burglary of a commercial premises.
He was sentenced to eight months in prison.
Detective Sergeant Ian Warncken from Gatwick CID said: “We worked in partnership with retailers and with London Gatwick Airport to ensure that the suspects were identified and arrested.
“We are determined to prevent thefts from businesses which cause concern to communities and can be very stressful for the public and staff working in them.”
Guilty Drug Dealer Seized by TFU in Brighton
A drug dealer has been found guilty following a patrol operation by the Tactical Firearms Unit (TFU) in Brighton.
Fiorent Muharremi caught the attention of officers while riding as a passenger in a taxi through the Clifton Road and Clifton Hill area on Wednesday, February 7. Muharremi exited the taxi after a brief 100-meter journey, prompting suspicion.
Undercover officers then approached and conducted a search, during which they discovered cash along with 30 bags of class A and B drugs. Muharremi was subsequently detained on charges of intent to supply class A and B drugs.
After a thorough inquiry by Brighton CID, 20-year-old Muharremi, employed as a car valet and without a permanent residence, was formally accused of intending to supply class A drugs and possession with intent to supply class B drugs.
During his appearance at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on February 8, Muharremi pled guilty to both counts and was taken into custody pending further proceedings.
TFU Inspector Oli Fisher said: “Our highly-trained officers conduct a variety of duties above and beyond armed response, and regularly carry out patrols to assist our colleagues across the force.
“This includes proactive operations to help disrupt the supply of drugs, which cause so much harm in our communities.”
Muharremi will appear for sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on March 7.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Convictions at London Gatwick Airport Reinforce Security Measures
London Gatwick Airport, two individuals have been convicted and sentenced for separate burglary offenses, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat theft and ensure security at one of the UK’s major transportation hubs.
Lloyd Edwards, a 37-year-old previously residing on Haywood Street, Southwark, faced justice for his crime committed within the North Terminal’s confines. Edwards pleaded guilty to burglarizing a commercial premises, where he illicitly acquired a wallet filled with cash and cards, collectively valued at approximately £100. The incident, which took place at 8 pm on February 10 of the previous year, saw Edwards exploiting a staff-only area to carry out his theft. His criminal activities extended beyond the airport’s perimeter, as he subsequently used the stolen cards for purchases at a local convenience store. On January 19, at Lewes Crown Court, Edwards admitted to his actions and received an eight-month prison sentence.
In a distinct yet similarly troubling case, Savin Costel-Alexandru, 29, with no known permanent residence, engaged in criminal conduct at the airport’s South Terminal. On December 17, just past 11:15 pm, Costel-Alexandru executed a break-in, initially attempting to access a cash register forcibly. Failing to open the register, he opted to steal cigarettes before vacating the premises. The magnitude of his offense led to a court appearance on January 30 at Crawley Magistrates’ Court, where he confessed to the burglary of a commercial establishment. His sentence concluded with a six-month term in prison.
Following the investigations, Detective Sergeant Ian Warncken from Gatwick CID said: “We worked in partnership with retailers and with London Gatwick Airport to ensure that the suspects were identified and arrested.
“We are determined to prevent thefts from businesses which cause concern to communities and can be very stressful for the public and staff working in them.
“These cases demonstrate that we will pursue prosecutions against offenders.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Police Charge 40-Year-Old Following Stabbing In Crawley
A man faces charges following a stabbing incident in Crawley.
Police responded to a call about an individual wielding a knife at Dalewood Gardens around 6:40 pm on Monday (5 February). Upon arrival, they found a 46-year-old local man suffering from a stab injury. He was rushed to the hospital with severe injuries but has been released since.
Louis Munorrah, 40, from Woodfield Road in Crawley, has been taken into custody and charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Munorrah is currently held in custody, awaiting his court appearance at Lewes Crown Court scheduled for 6 March.
Authorities believe this was an isolated event, posing no further risk to the community. The police are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information or video evidence to come forward and contact them online or by calling 101, referencing Operation Cavalier.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Scrap Metal Dealer from Wales Convicted or Sexual Offenses Against Underage Girl in Rustington
A Welsh scrap metal dealer who committed sexual offenses against a teenage girl in Rustington has been sentenced to prison.
Mark Rumbol, 58, from Hewelsfield in Wales, was found guilty of repeatedly sexually assaulting a girl under 15 from 2020 to 2021.
After the abuse was reported in March 2021, Rumbol was detained, and the victim received support from specialized police officers.
He faced charges including rape, two counts of sexual assault, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of inciting a girl under the age of 15 to engage in sexual activity without penetration.
On 18 December at Lewes Crown Court, Rumbol was acquitted of rape but convicted of the other charges.
On 26 January, the same court sentenced him to 11 years in prison. Additionally, he must register as a sex offender for life and was issued a restraining order along with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to greatly limit his potential for future offenses.
Detective Constable Julie Leseure said: “Mark Rumbol subjected his victim to appalling crimes for his own gratification, with no regard for the devastating harm they caused.
“She has shown incredible courage and determination to report the abuse and support this investigation through to its conclusion.
“Thanks to her bravery, Rumbol is now behind bars where he can cause no further harm.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Young Offender Handed Prison Sentence for Goring Store Robbery
A 20-year-old man has received a prison sentence following an armed robbery at a Goring store.
Alfie Reedman of Westergate Close, Ferring, entered the Tesco Express on Goring Way at approximately 7:50 am on Saturday, 21 October, where he used a knife to intimidate staff and demanded money from the register, making off with several hundred pounds.
The following day, Reedman targeted The Welcome Store on Half Moon Lane, Salvington, and the Salvington Food Centre on Salvington Road, Worthing, attempting to rob them. However, he left empty-handed from both locations and was subsequently apprehended by the police on Franklin Road.
After admitting to one charge of robbery and two charges of attempted robbery at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 21 November, Reedman was taken into custody.
On 16 January, Lewes Crown Court handed down a 30-month sentence to Reedman to be served in a Young Offenders Institution. Additionally, he was issued a five-year restraining order prohibiting him from entering The Welcome Store, Half Moon Lane, or Tesco Express on Goring Way.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Crawley Drug Dealer ‘Tilgate Liam’ Sentenced in County Lines Crackdown
Following a targeted operation against County Lines drug trafficking, a man has been sentenced to prison.
During the execution of a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant in Crawley, officers apprehended local drug dealer Liam Batchelor.
Batchelor was pinpointed for running a narcotics operation that distributed heroin and crack cocaine to at-risk individuals in the vicinity.
The 37-year-old, known among his contacts as ‘Tilgate Liam’, was apprehended with six mobile phones. Examination of these devices provided conclusive evidence of his illicit endeavors.
He faced charges for his involvement in the distribution of crack cocaine and heroin. After admitting guilt, he received a prison sentence of three years and nine months from Lewes Crown Court on January 12.
PC Dave Oliver, of the Op Centurion team, said: “This is another great result in our continued efforts to target prolific drug dealers and protect vulnerable drug users in Crawley.
“It is essential we catch criminals before they have the opportunity to escape or conceal evidence, and sometimes this involves executing a pre-planned warrant.
“This case demonstrates that we could be coming for you anywhere, at any time.”
Batchelor, of Boswell Road, Tilgate, was arrested as part of Operation Ruby – a crackdown on County Lines drug-dealing in Crawley in December.
A number of other suspects were also arrested and are due to appear in court over the next few months.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
19-Year-Old Jailed for Running Brighton ‘Snupe’ Drug Line
A young adult has received a prison sentence of two years and six months for his involvement in the distribution of crack cocaine and heroin in Brighton.
Charlie Angel, 19, was found to be the operator of the ‘Snupe’ County Drug Line in the region.
The investigation began as a search for a high-risk missing individual, suspected of being coerced into Class A drug trafficking.
In August 2023, a 17-year-old, along with two other teenagers aged 16 and 17, was found in a Peacehaven flat. This location was discovered to be a site for preparing Class A drugs for sale.
Several mobile phones were confiscated and analyzed, establishing a connection between all three teenagers and Angel.
Residing in North Place, Brighton, Angel was apprehended in Northampton on August 16. He was found with a phone used for managing the drug operation.
Further investigations confirmed his role in overseeing the drug line used for distributing Class A substances.
Angel faced charges for his involvement in supplying crack cocaine and heroin. He pled guilty and received his sentence at Lewes Crown Court on January 19.
PC Dave Oliver, of the Op Centurion team, said: “Angel attempted to avoid detection by distancing himself from the drugs, and using vulnerable people to prepare and supply them for him.
“His conviction was made possible thanks to great work from the Op Centurion team, working in partnership with the Met Police’s Op Orochi team to combat County Lines drug dealing.”
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Trial Set for Accused Teen over Brighton Murder
On Friday at Lewes Crown Court, a 16-year-old boy from Southwick faced charges for the murder of a fellow teenager Mustafa Momand the incident occurred in Queens Road Brighton on the 5th of October. The young defendant, whose identity is withheld due to legal protections for minors, is scheduled for a jury trial starting Monday, February 19.
The case has attracted considerable attention in the Brighton community, stirring discussions about youth violence. The boy, who appeared in the dock this week, had previously pleaded not guilty during a video link session held on Friday, December 15.
Legal experts anticipate a complex trial, given the age of the accused and the gravity of the charges. The presiding judge has emphasised the importance of a fair and thorough judicial process.
The defendant has been remanded in custody.
Brighton stabbing victim identified as Mustafa Momand Read more on www.Sussex.News
Teenager Thomas Waeling sentenced to 16 years for attempted murder in Hastings, community left shocked
In a shocking case of unprovoked violence, 18-year-old Thomas Waeling has been sentenced to 16 years for attempted murder in Hastings. The incident, which took place last year, left the community in disbelief. Waeling stabbed a woman multiple times, causing severe injuries. Despite her harrowing experience, she survived and expressed gratitude for the public and paramedics who came to her aid. Waeling showed no remorse during his trial, claiming he committed the assault “to be taken seriously.” Knife crime remains a top priority for law enforcement in Hastings, who are committed to tackling the issue and providing support to concerned individuals.
St Leonards Man Convicted of Child Sexual Assault
Darren Sibley, a 40-year-old construction worker from St Leonards, has been sentenced to a prison term exceeding 15 years for the sexual abuse of a young girl.
The series of assaults, which targeted a child under the age of 13, occurred from 2011 to 2016. The abuse was exposed when, in 2020, a friend of the victim courageously reported Sibley’s actions to the Sussex Police.
Following the report, officers reached out to the victim, initiating an investigation supported by specialists in the field.
Sibley was apprehended and faced multiple charges, including five counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and one count of attempted sexual assault of a child under 13. He also faced charges for assaulting an emergency worker and failing to surrender to custody.
During the trial at Hove Crown Court on October 24, 2023, Sibley was convicted of three sexual offences. He admitted guilt to the assault on an emergency worker and to failing to surrender.
On January 8, at Lewes Crown Court, the court imposed a 15-year and three-month prison sentence on Sibley. Additionally, he was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to significantly reduce the risk of reoffending. A restraining order has been issued to protect the victim, and Sibley will be registered as a sex offender for life.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
Drug Dealer Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison Following Brighton Police Stop
A drug dealer operating in Brighton has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after a routine police stop by Specialist Enforcement Unit (SEU) officers. Asllan Hasbajrami, 21 years old, was apprehended in Preston Road for driving a vehicle without a valid license or insurance. The SEU officers, patrolling the area, grew suspicious when Hasbajrami’s […]
Man Arrested for Assault in Hastings: Witnesses Sought
In a recent incident in Hastings Town Centre, Patrick Doran, a 41-year-old man residing at Robertson Terrace, Hastings, has been taken into custody on charges of assaulting and sexually assaulting a woman. The incident, which occurred on Robertson Street at approximately 5.25 pm on Wednesday, January 17, was initially reported as an altercation between a […]
Brighton’s SEU Nabs Drug Dealer: Hasbajrami’s Deception Uncovered
Specialist Enforcement Unit (SEU) officers in Brighton intercepted Asllan Hasbajrami, a drug dealer, driving without a valid license or insurance on Preston Road. The 21-year-old aroused suspicion when he appeared nervous during the stop and attempted to deceive officers with a false name and fake identification documents.
A search of his vehicle revealed cash, two burner phones, and 16 wraps of cocaine. Brighton CID’s investigation led to charges against Hasbajrami for involvement in class A drug supply, unauthorized driving, uninsured driving, and resisting arrest.
On January 12 at Lewes Crown Court, Hasbajrami, previously residing on Beaconsfield Road in Brighton, pleaded guilty and received an 18-month prison sentence. Post-incarceration, he faces deportation to Albania.
The incident, occurring in the early hours of October 14, initially saw Hasbajrami’s vehicle noted by SEU officers. Upon a second sighting later that night, Hasbajrami was detained, and the discovered drugs and cash were confiscated.
SEU Inspector Ollie Pullen commented on the case’s success, highlighting the proactive patrols in Brighton’s city center aimed at disrupting criminal activities and drug trafficking that negatively impact the community. He noted Hasbajrami’s use of a counterfeit Italian driving license and inability to spell the false name given to officers, expressing satisfaction with the case outcome.
Read more on www.Sussex.News
