Two Drug Dealers Jailed for £4.1 Million Cocaine Push in Hull
Two men caught running a huge cocaine operation using the encrypted messaging app Encrochat have been slammed with a combined 19½ years behind bars. The pair smuggled around £4.1 million worth of Class A drugs into Hull and surrounding areas.
Richard Batty and Robert Gervis Busted
Richard Batty, 38, from Withernwick, East Yorkshire, and Robert Gervis, 59, from Northwich, Cheshire, pled guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine between April and August 2020. Batty got 12 years, while Gervis was handed seven-and-a-half at Hull Crown Court on 30 June.
Operation Venetic Takes Down Major Crime Group
The drug bust came after a National Crime Agency-led crackdown named Operation Venetic. This international operation targeted crime gangs using Encrochat. The operation netted 746 arrests, seized £54 million in criminal cash, 77 firearms, and over two tonnes of drugs.
In this case, the duo worked as courier and dealer over nine weeks, bringing in 41kg of cocaine to East Yorkshire alone. Detective Chief Inspector Jim Clough revealed a dramatic moment in June 2020 when Gervis transported five kilogram blocks of designer cocaine – stamped with ‘Prada’ and ‘GVY’ – worth £500,000.
“Batty refused the deal due to poor quality. Gervis tried to make off with the drugs but was stopped and arrested on the M62 near Goole.”
Big Press and Bigger Consequences
Batty was arrested in August 2020. Police found a 10-tonne hydraulic press at his home used for pressing cocaine. Now, a Proceeds of Crime Act confiscation will target Batty’s high-value assets, stripping away his drug money.
Police Send Clear Warning to Drug Dealers
DCI Clough said, “Investigating and tackling organised crime remains our priority. I’m pleased these two are now facing justice. Their operation would’ve flooded our streets with drugs.”
He praised those who provided information, saying it helped build a strong case. The investigation was extensive and involved teamwork across police forces and the National Crime Agency.
“This sends a clear message – drug dealing will not be tolerated here. We will keep working to keep our communities safe.”
Spot Crime? Speak Out!
- Contact your local police officer or nearest station
- Call the non-emergency 101 line
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
For emergencies, always dial 999.
