Since the infiltration of Encrochat – the encrypted communications platform used by many in the criminal underworld, several of those arrested and charged have been challenging the admissibility of the evidence which has resulted in delays in criminal proceedings.
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Jonathan Cassidy and Nasar Ahmed, two prolific drug importers and money launderers we jailed earlier this year, were one of the lead cases against this. For years, along with several other high-profile criminals, they challenged the evidence secured from the nationwide NCA led Operation Venetic, alleging the evidence was inadmissible. In February this year (2024) the Judge presiding over this case decided the Encrochat material could be admitted in evidence in Cassidy and Ahmed’s criminal proceedings. With insurmountable incriminating evidence, they had little choice but to plead guilty. They were jailed for almost 44 years.
