Three men have been sentenced for drug and firearms offences following a detailed investigation by Metropolitan Police officers in Croydon. The investigation is part of the Met’s ongoing effort to tackle drug-fuelled violence across London.
Daniel Griffin, 25, from Church Road, Croydon, was sentenced to 12 years in prison at Croydon Crown Court on Friday, 30 August. Griffin was found guilty of the supply and possession of crack cocaine and heroin, as well as the possession of two firearms and live ammunition.
Two of Griffin’s accomplices also faced sentencing for their involvement in drug-related crimes. Sonny Panice, 34, from Brunswick Road, Sutton, was sentenced to four years and six months in prison, while Cairo Khalid, 22, from Brighton Road, Purley, received a two-year suspended sentence. Both pleaded guilty to being involved in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin.
PC Sam Kirk, the lead investigator, expressed his pride in the officers involved in the investigation: “Drugs ruin lives. The damage they cause to individuals and communities is far-reaching. That’s why I am immensely proud of the work of the officers involved in this investigation. Our sustained efforts to tackle drug supply is an important step in reducing violence on the streets. This investigation should serve as a message to criminals and gang members involved in the supply of drugs – we will come after you and we will bring you to justice.”
The investigation into the trio was part of the Met’s ongoing Operation Yamata, which targets drug supply networks across London. Since its inception in 2022, Operation Yamata has led to the closure of over 1,000 drug lines and has brought numerous criminals to justice.
Officers identified Griffin as the leader of a drug line operating in south London. On 5 March, a raid at Griffin’s home uncovered mobile phones used in drug dealing, £14,000 worth of crack cocaine and heroin, a sawn-off shotgun, a rifle, and over 200 rounds of live ammunition. Griffin was arrested and later charged.
Further investigation led to the identification of Griffin’s accomplices, Panice and Khalid. A search warrant executed at Panice’s home on 9 July revealed additional quantities of Class A drugs. Both men were arrested the same day.
Operation Yamata employs a data-led approach to track and dismantle drug lines, ensuring that officers target the most prolific offenders and make neighbourhoods safer from the violence and destruction caused by the drug trade.
