London Man Jailed for Running Southampton Drugs Line
A Londoner has been slammed with a hefty prison term for masterminding a drugs operation in Southampton. Hameed Baig, 25, from Greenwich, was sentenced to four years and three months at Southampton Crown Court on Thursday (4 January). He admitted to dealing cocaine and crack cocaine, possessing criminal property, and carrying a dangerous “zombie knife.”
Massive Police Haul in County Lines Crackdown
The court heard the police investigation into the county line in Southampton found Baig living in Netley. In December 2022, officers raided a Station Road property and seized cannabis, multiple phones, £4,809 in cash found in two bedrooms, plus a whopping £22,000 hidden in the loft.
Further searches uncovered a Ford Focus packed with crack cocaine, heroin, cocaine, drug paraphernalia, and a pistol. Baig and two other men were arrested. Analysis of the phones revealed the “Medz” drugline was being advertised, dealing Class A and B drugs across Southampton.
Co-Defendant Avoids Jail But Faces Tough Conditions
Another man, 21-year-old Pasha Patel from Eastleigh, appeared in court and received a 20-month suspended sentence for involvement in cocaine supply and handling criminal property. Detective Constable James Pieri praised the bust, highlighting the dangers posed by Class A dealers.
“Baig and Patel were involved in the supply of some of the most harmful drugs we deal with. The harm caused by drug supply cannot be understated and it often brings associated criminality, including violence and knife crime.”
“I am pleased we have taken another drugs line off Southampton’s streets. Southampton will remain a hostile environment for dealers.”
Police Urge Public to Help Stamp Out Drug Crime
The police appealed to locals to report any suspicious drug activity in their communities. Detective Pieri added, “Every piece of information helps us build a stronger intelligence picture and allows us to take action.”
