Big Bust in Litherland: Drug Dealer Jailed for 18 Years
Mark Murphy, 39, from Canal View Court, Litherland, has been locked up for 18 years at Liverpool Crown Court this Wednesday, November 15, 2023. The hardcore criminal was convicted of possessing cocaine with intent to supply, conspiring to own a firearm, and plotting to supply heroin, cocaine, and cannabis via the encrypted chat app Encrochat.
Operation Venetic Snags Drug and Gun Crime Kingpin
Murphy was arrested on July 6, 2023, at his Litherland home as part of Merseyside Police’s crackdown on criminals using Encrochat to dodge law enforcement. The global investigation, known as Operation Venetic, aimed to dismantle gangs exploiting encrypted messaging to run their illicit trades.
Police uncovered Murphy’s Encrochat handle, “FIVE-FINGERS,” which he used between March and June 2020 to push Class A and B drugs. Officers also found images of a Glock pistol he was conspiring to possess.
Two Kilos of Cocaine and a Deadly Gun Seized
At the raid, cops recovered around two kilograms of cocaine from Murphy’s property. In court, he admitted to conspiring to supply massive hauls of drugs: 17.75kg of cocaine, 9kg of heroin, and 2kg of cannabis. He also pleaded guilty to conspiring to own the Glock pistol and possessing cocaine with intent to supply.
Police Praise “Relentless” Effort to Tackle Crime
Detective Chief Inspector Paul McVeigh from the Firearms Investigation Team said: “Thankfully, Murphy has been sentenced and will spend many years behind bars. This case shows our relentless fight against serious organised crime, including gun possession and drug dealing in our region.”
McVeigh urged locals to come forward with any info about drug use or weapon plans, stressing the need to protect the community from the devastation such crimes cause.
To report tips about weapons or drugs, contact @MerPolCC on social media or call Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
