Bedfordshire Crime Lords Caged for Over 200 Years Thanks to Encrypted Phone Bust
Organised crime bosses across Bedfordshire have been slammed behind bars for a combined 200+ years after police smashed an encrypted messaging platform used exclusively by crooks. The takedown came as part of Operation Costello, launched in 2020 after UK authorities dismantled EncroChat – a secret tool criminals used to plot drug and weapons trafficking in the shadows.
Drug Kingpins Face Heavy Sentences
Last week saw the latest round of tough jail terms handed down. Three men – Mohammed Shaukat and Ashley Cain from Luton, and Shane Dann from Cranfield – were locked up for a total of more than 36 years for their roles in a huge cocaine ring.
- Shane Dann, 31, got 15 years.
- Mohammed Shaukat, 38, received 13 years 5 months.
- Ashley Cain, 32, was jailed for 7 years 6 months for acting as a courier.
The gang moved a staggering 200 kilos of cocaine worth around £8 million across the country. Cain, dubbed the key “runner,” was caught ferrying Class A drugs nationwide, doing the “dirty work” for Shaukat and Dann.
Operation Costello: Bedfordshire’s War on Crime
Bedfordshire Police’s Detective Superintendent Nick Skipworth, who leads the operation, said:
“We’re targeting the major players in drug supply and violence to protect vulnerable people and our communities. This gang thought they could hide behind EncroChat, but we shattered that illusion.”
Linda Carson, Operation Costello Lead Manager, added:
“Over 200 years of jail time shows the dedication of our team to smash organised crime and end the misery these dealers bring.”
The operation is backed by government funding and forms part of the national Operation Venetic, tackling encrypted phones fuelling organised crime.
How You Can Help Catch Criminals
Police urge locals to report suspicious activity and help keep Bedfordshire safe. If you suspect organised crime, act now by:
- Calling 101 or using the 123.
