Drug Gang Ripped from Portsmouth Streets with 14 Years Jail Time
Six members of a ruthless family-run drug gang have been jailed for more than 14 years after a major bust in Portsmouth. The Operation Fortress investigation, spanning from December 2014 to March 2015, smashed a network supplying heroin and crack cocaine across the city.
Harsh Sentences for Portsmouth’s Drug Dealers
- Kaylon Wallace, 25, from Southend Lane, London, hit hardest with 6 years and 2 months for conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.
- Hannah Knapp, 26 of Meadows Way, London, slapped with 3 years for the same charge.
- Angel McKay, 17 from Beckenham, London, locked up for 2 years and 8 months.
- Eduardo Rodrigues, 22, handed 2 years and 8 months plus a concurrent 6-month term for possession with intent to supply.
- Taisha Samuels, 19, no fixed address, received a suspended sentence of 2 years.
- Annette Collins, 38, Portsmouth resident, dodged jail but got a 12-month community order and enforced drug rehabilitation for allowing her premises to be used and possession of heroin and crack cocaine.
In total, eight criminals have now been found guilty, with two others already behind bars for drug offences linked to this gang.
Police Hit Back: “Portsmouth Won’t Tolerate Drug Dealers”
DC Lamb said, “This is another example of police tackling drug-dealing networks in Portsmouth. The local community has already felt the benefits of Operation Fortress, and we’ll keep fighting to smash these gangs.”
Chief Inspector James Pegler added, “We will not tolerate drug dealing in Portsmouth. We’re working with partners to choke supply, reduce demand, and make the city a hostile place for dealers. If anyone spots suspicious drug activity, call 101 quoting Operation Fortress.”
Operation Fortress: A City United Against Drugs
Operation Fortress brings together police and local agencies to fight drug-related violence and crime. Their goal: cut off drug supplies and protect communities from harm.
Residents are urged to speak up if they suspect drug dealing or related criminal activity in their neighbourhoods. The police promise to keep Portsmouth safe and drug-free.
