Lee Standen the final member of a Wigan-based gang, has been sentenced to 19 years in prison for his involvement in a conspiracy to supply cocaine. This comes after a lengthy investigation by the Serious Organised Crime Group, which uncovered a network of criminals conspiring to flood the North with drugs and weapons.

[block_2]

The investigation was made possible by Operation Venetic, in which the National Crime Agency gained access to messages from the once-encrypted messaging platform, Encrochat. This platform, often referred to as a criminal version of WhatsApp, provided a wealth of incriminating evidence, allowing detectives to attribute messages to individuals across the UK.

Stay connected to UKNIP via Google News
ENJOYED THIS STORY? Choose UKNIP as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.
Add as preferred source on Google

We are your go-to destination for breaking UK news, real-life stories from communities across the country, striking images, and must-see video from the heart of the action.

Follow us on Facebook at for the latest updates and developing stories, and stay connected on X (Twitter) the for live coverage as news breaks across the UK.

SIGN UP NOW FOR YOUR FREE DAILY BREAKING NEWS AND PICTURES NEWSLETTER

Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy

YOU MIGHT LIKE