Brighton Students Jailed for Running Cannabis Import Scam
Two Brighton students have been locked up for smuggling huge quantities of cannabis into the city. Yu Tang, 26, from Fleet Street, and Jiangpeng Wei, 26, from Kingscote Way, were caught importing cannabis from the USA and Canada in a carefully hidden operation.
Drug Hunt Uncovered More Than 40 Kilos of Cannabis
Detectives grew suspicious after spotting the pair frequently picking up packages not addressed to them at shared student housing across Brighton. A police search revealed large amounts of herbal cannabis, double vacuum-packed and concealed among everyday items like T-shirts. Over 40 parcels were seized from their addresses, totaling more than 40 kilograms of cannabis.
- Investigation began in September 2023
- Packages smuggled from the US and Canada
- £3,500 cash also confiscated
Courts Slam Tang with Nearly Four Years, Wei Gets 18 Months
Tang and Wei pleaded guilty to importing cannabis and possession of criminal property. Sentencing at Lewes Crown Court on 14 August handed Tang three years and nine months behind bars. Wei was jailed for one year and six weeks. Charges related to supply were left on file.
“This was a significant operation and the disruption caused goes well beyond the sentences,” said Detective Sergeant Leon Ryan. “The cannabis quantities were far too large for personal use and clearly meant for wholesale distribution. We will continue to deal robustly with offenders.”
“Students tempted by offers like this should think twice – it’s illegal and a criminal record could haunt you for life.”
The police crackdown sends a clear message: importing drugs won’t be tolerated, no matter who you are.
