Ten individuals have appeared in court after being charged with involvement in a significant drug-dealing ring, following a series of coordinated early-morning raids across Kent, London, and Surrey. The operation, which took place on Thursday 3 April, saw specialist police teams simultaneously entering and searching multiple properties in Ramsgate, Broadstairs, Birchington, Canterbury, Croydon, and Surrey.
Seized Items
During the raids, officers confiscated suspected quantities of cocaine and ketamine, alongside a large amount of cash, phones, and high-value watches. Police believe the arrests have dismantled a key part of an organised crime group involved in the supply of class A drugs.
Charges and Court Appearances
The following individuals appeared in court on Friday 4 April 2025:
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Bertie Payne, 29, of Plumstone Road, Birchington, and Peter Nichols, 50, of Ellington Road, Ramsgate, are charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine, ecstasy, and ketamine as well as money laundering.
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Massimo Fierro, 27, of Shottendane Road, Birchington, is charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine and ketamine.
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Mitchell Laing, 27, of Lime Trees, Minster, faces charges of conspiracy to supply cocaine and money laundering.
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Klein Taylor, 28, of King Street, Ramsgate; Reece Stovell, 28, of St Benet’s Road, Westgate-on-Sea; Harry Hathaway, 31, of Kingsgate Avenue, Broadstairs; Waqas Bashir, 34, of Ford Road, Woking; and Karen Gordon, 51, of Ellington Road, Ramsgate, are all charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine.
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Halim Lashi, 30, of Lynwood Garden, Croydon, is charged with money laundering.
Court Outcomes
Nine of the ten defendants were remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday 2 May 2025. Karen Gordon was bailed until the same date.
Additionally, one man and one woman arrested as part of the operation have been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Coordinated Operation
Police described the operation as meticulously planned, targeting multiple addresses at the same time to disrupt the network effectively. A spokesperson for the Kent Police said:
“This operation represents a significant blow to organised crime in the region. The arrests and seizures were part of a long-running investigation aimed at dismantling a major drug supply network.”
Community Impact
Residents in the affected areas have expressed relief that police action has been taken. One local from Ramsgate commented:
It’s reassuring to see the police taking decisive action. Drug activity has been a problem in some parts of the community, and it’s good to know they’re cracking down on it.”
However, some have voiced concerns about the social impact of drug distribution in the region, with community leaders emphasizing the need for prevention programs to support vulnerable individuals.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have urged anyone with further information about the group or related drug activities to come forward. They are particularly interested in hearing from those who may have witnessed suspicious activities at the targeted properties.
How to Help
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is encouraged to contact Kent Police on 101, quoting the relevant crime reference number. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be given to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Broader Context
Drug crime has been an ongoing issue in the South East, with law enforcement agencies increasingly focusing on disrupting the supply chains and identifying key figures within organised crime groups. This recent operation reflects an intensified effort to tackle drug-related harm in communities and safeguard public safety.
