York Drug Dealer Locked Up for Nearly Five Years
Mahbub Kamali Rahman, 33, from Osbaldwick, York, has been slammed with a prison sentence of four years and nine months for possession with intent to supply heroin. The harsh verdict was handed down at York Crown Court on Tuesday, 17 March 2026.
Rahman admitted guilt last July alongside his co-accused Paul Matson, 63, of Bootham Square, York. While Matson escaped jail with a 23-month suspended sentence, Rahman was kept behind bars awaiting sentencing. Matson remains out on bail as the police dig deeper into the case.
Hard-Hitting Police Crackdown on Organised Drug Crime
Detective Sergeant Sinéad Brocken from North Yorkshire Police’s Organised Crime Unit said:
“Mahbub Kamali Rahman played a key role in a conspiracy to supply Class A drugs across York and the wider Yorkshire and Humber area. His jail term reflects the gravity of his crimes and the devastating impact on people and the community.”
“North Yorkshire Police, alongside our partners, will continue to dismantle organised crime groups pushing Class A and other illegal drugs.”
York’s Massive Drug Bust: How Police Struck a Blow
Back in May 2025, North Yorkshire Police slammed multiple searches across York, uncovering a stash of heroin, MDMA, cannabis, and cocaine. Along with drugs, officers seized cash and vital evidence linked to the supply chain.
Three York men—including Rahman and Matson—were arrested for conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs. Both men faced charges and were remanded, while a third suspect was released on conditional bail.
Detective Chief Inspector Fionna McEwan praised the operation: “This bust highlights our commitment to smashing organised drug crime that wrecks lives. We thank the public for their support and urge anyone with information to come forward.”
Spot the Signs of Drug Dealing in Your Area
- Heavy foot traffic at strange hours
- Short visits from unfamiliar vehicles
- Strangers or multiple accents near a property
- Anti-social behaviour around the neighbourhood
- Long absences of usual residents
- Drug debris like tiny plastic bags or syringes
- Windows and curtains constantly shut
Need Help with Drug or Alcohol Problems?
Local confidential support services are ready to help:
- Drink Drug Hub
- North Yorkshire Rise (Youth Support): Freephone 08000 14 14 80
- North Yorkshire Horizons (Adult Support): Freephone 08000 14 14 80
- City of York Drug and Alcohol Service
- NHS Addiction Support
- FRANK Helpline: 0300 123 6600
See Something? Say Something
Got info on drug dealing? Report it anonymously or directly:
- Call 101 for non-emergencies
- Dial 999 in an emergency
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111
