Heroin Smuggled in Pomegranate Juice Bottles
Colin Bartlett, 54, and his son Lee, 30, from Bordesley Green, Birmingham, were caught up in a huge heroin smuggling ring. The gang concealed more than £20 million worth of pure heroin inside pomegranate juice containers. The drugs were smuggled all the way from Afghanistan using a fake company and bogus director to cover their tracks.
In May 2023, National Crime Agency officers seized a staggering 420kg of heroin hidden among 2.6 tonnes of juice bottles. The Bartletts were arrested alongside 11 other workers as they unloaded the dodgy shipment in Birmingham.
Suspended Sentences for Massive Drug Operation
At Birmingham Crown Court in August 2025, Colin and Lee Bartlett were found guilty of involvement in the crime group. On 21 November, both received suspended sentences: Colin got 24 months suspended for two years, while Lee was handed 18 months, also suspended for two years. No immediate prison time despite the massive haul.
NCA’s Derek Evans slammed the pair: “These men tried to flood our streets with huge amounts of heroin, risking lives and fuelling criminal profits. Tackling class A drugs remains our top priority—we won’t stop chasing traffickers.”
Two More Suspects Still at Large
The hunt is on for two more suspects connected to the case: Shamut Khan, 56, and Matiullah Zamankhel, 23, both from Birmingham. They skipped court after being released on bail last November.
Derek Evans warned, “They are linked locally but could be anywhere. Anyone sheltering or aiding them risks arrest. We urge the public to report any sightings immediately.”
If you spot Khan or Zamankhel, call the NCA on 0370 496 7622 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
