Five drug dealers locked up after giant cocaine ring busted across Kent
EncroChat Drama: Police Cracked Secret Drug Network
Five men have been jailed for running a massive cocaine operation across Kent. They used the encrypted phone network, EncroChat, to move Class A drugs in bulk.
Their secret messaging system was cracked by police in France and the Netherlands in 2020. The National Crime Agency then passed the intelligence to UK cops, sparking a major crackdown.
How Police Snagged The Gang
Between March and June 2020, William Ferguson repeatedly bought kilo blocks of cocaine via EncroChat. He resold the stash at a hefty profit, helped by Aaron Duff who drove the drugs around.
Nathaniel Green and Billy Robinson were also key players, handling transport and distribution. A July 2020 raid at Green’s home in Chatham uncovered £34,425 in cash, cannabis, knuckle dusters, a knife, and an air weapon.
Robinson’s house search revealed nearly £2,700 in cash and a bank note counter. Ferguson and Duff were arrested in May 2021, ending their dirty dealings.
Drugs ‘Factory’ Discovered in Essex
Another conspirator, Ged Shone-Porter, aged 26, was caught running a cocaine processing setup in Maldon, Essex.
When stopped by police in August 2021, he jokingly warned: “You probably wanna get your bin bags ready if you’re coming here mate.” Inside the property was a full-on drugs lab—presses, 12 kilograms of cocaine stamped with logos, cutting agents, mixing bowls, and £14,000 cash.
They also seized 3 kilograms of cannabis.
Heavy Jail Terms for the Drug Ring
All five men pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and got hefty sentences:
- William Ferguson: 13 years 6 months for conspiracy to supply cocaine, amphetamine, and cannabis, plus acquiring criminal property.
- Aaron Duff: 8 years for conspiracy to supply drugs and possession with intent to supply.
- Ged Shone-Porter: 10 years 10 months for conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis.
- Nathaniel Green: 10 years 3 months for conspiracy to supply multiple drugs.
- Billy Robinson: 6 years 9 months for conspiracy to supply cocaine.
Detective Superintendent Speaks Out
Detective Superintendent Lee Morton said: “Ferguson and Green used EncroChat to move wholesale cocaine on a commercial scale. Ferguson alone handled 18 kilos and made thousands in profit. Green transported at least 14 kilos. Many criminals thought EncroChat’s encryption made them untouchable. This case proves no system is foolproof – police will always find a way to bring drug dealers to justice.”
