Career Cocaine Dealer Caught in Major UK Crackdown
Lee Broughton, 40, from Epsom, has been slammed with a 10-year prison sentence after a joint National Crime Agency (NCA) and Metropolitan Police investigation busted his class A drug empire.
Operation Venetic Crushes EncroChat Drug Network
The probe was part of Operation Venetic—the UK’s response to the takedown of the encrypted EncroChat platform. Officers targeted a user named ‘Sleekyak’, who bragged about moving 10 to 20kg of cocaine every week and laundering £37,000.
Over two months, investigators uncovered 1,071 messages between Sleekyak and 22 known drug dealers, including pictures of what appeared to be kilo blocks of cocaine.
Encrypted Chat Leads Straight to Broughton
Police traced the anonymous device to Broughton. Messages revealed details like his birthday, confirming his identity. He was arrested on 31 March 2021 at his girlfriend’s home in Surrey, charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs and money laundering.
Broughton has a lengthy criminal past, including multiple cocaine and MDMA supply convictions dating back to 1997. Notably, he served prison terms in 2003 and 2013 for similar offences.
‘Big Talk’ Defence Falls Flat
In interview, Broughton claimed he exaggerated drug quantities to seem more important and secure better deals. But on 30 April 2021, he pleaded guilty at Kingston Crown Court.
The judge handed down a 10-year sentence on 19 August.
“Broughton is a career drug supplier who for decades has sought to profit from a trade that fuels violence, misery and destroys the fabric of society,” said DCI Mark Brookes, Head of the Organised Crime Partnership.
“He tried to use encrypted technology to escape detection, but UK law enforcement is determined to stop criminals operating with impunity. This investigation shows the power of the NCA and Met working together to protect the public.”
