Portsmouth Drug Gang Boss Jailed for 14 Years
Six members of a Portsmouth-based organised crime group have been locked up for drug trafficking offences. The ring dealt cocaine, amphetamine, ketamine, and cannabis across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight from 2019 to 2021.
Heavy Sentences for Hampshire’s Drug Dealers
- Dean Canavan, 45, Waterlooville – 14 years in prison for conspiracy to supply multiple drugs.
- Grant Canavan, 38, Southampton – 12 years for drug conspiracy.
- John Oliver, 36, Portsmouth – 10 years for conspiracy and possession of a prohibited weapon.
- Saul Francis, 37, Portsmouth – 5 years following a trial on cocaine and ketamine supply.
- Aron Pucci, 34, Surrey – 12 years for conspiracy to supply cocaine.
- Marie Peters, 35, Southampton – 2-year suspended sentence and rehabilitation for her role in the gang.
Massive Drug Haul and £209k Cash Seized
The gang supplied an estimated 60kg of cocaine, 90kg of amphetamines, 7kg of ketamine, and 7kg of cannabis. Investigators uncovered their use of the now-defunct EncroChat system to organise deals.
Police seized over £209,000 in cash and 15.5 kilograms of drugs in raids. The wholesale value of drugs they pushed between 2019 and 2021 hit between £1.5 million and £3 million.
Police Praise Crackdown on Drug Crime
Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo said: “The disruption of this gang is a great success for the Constabulary and for the officers and staff who worked tirelessly to bring these offenders to justice. Tackling drug-related harm is an absolute priority for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, as the supply of drugs is often connected to other offences such as high levels of violence or exploitation of vulnerable adults and children.”
“These sentences demonstrate very clearly that we will not tolerate the supply of drugs in Hampshire & on the Isle of Wight. If you are involved in activity like this, we will find you and bring you to justice.”
Anyone concerned about drug activity can contact police on 101 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
