Police bring local cocaine operation to an end
A man who was involved in selling high purity cocaine in the city centre has been jailed.
Gentjan Baro from Collyhurst has been sentenced for 7 years in prison - after he was found guilty of possession of a firearm following a trial at Manchester Crown Court.
The 27-year-old is the last man of 20 who have been jailed as part of an covert operation lasting several months. A total of 24 people were arrested for drugs, immigration, firearms and false document offences.
Drugs with an estimated value of £130,000 were recovered, £74,000 in cash, two firearms, ammunition, a magazine and silencer. Detective Inspector Tony Norman from Challenger Manchester said:
"Manchester city centre is a popular destination for UK and overseas visitors and people wanting to sample its varied and vibrant nightlife so it's important we ensure the city centre continues to be a safe place to visit. "These men were business-like, well dressed drug dealers who commanded a premium price for the cocaine they sold. The operation was aimed at disrupting these organised criminals who often operated under false identities to avoid arousing suspicion, and crucially taking dangerous firearms off the streets. "We have had concerns from the community about drug dealing in the city centre particularly around Piccadilly Gardens and I hope this shows people that we are acting on intelligence and taking action against drug dealers. "Three suspects from the operation remain outstanding and police are appealing to the public to come forward with information about their whereabouts.” The people arrested in connection with this crime share a total of over 75 years in prison between them.