## Drug Dealer’s Panic at Routine Police Stop Unravels Ongoing Criminal Operation
A routine insurance check by South Wales Police led to the unravelling of a significant drug supply operation last year, after an anxious response from a Bridgend motorist quickly raised officers’ suspicions. The man at the centre of the incident, named as Curtis Baker, 25, displayed notable agitation during a standard traffic stop, leading to a chain of events that culminated in a substantial jail sentence.
The situation unfolded just before half past ten on the evening of 6 June 2024, when patrolling police officers observed a vehicle making an unusual stop in the Bridgend area. According to police accounts, Baker’s car was seen pulling over and engaging in a brief exchange with an individual nearby, before the vehicle sped away from the scene. Such behaviour often flags up concerns for officers, who are trained to spot patterns consistent with street-level drug deals.
Shortly after this initial encounter, officers came across Baker’s vehicle once more—this time in Pencoed, where it had come to a natural halt. Seizing the opportunity, police decided to speak to Baker. The officers requested proof of insurance for the car, prompting Baker to hand over his mobile phone, which contained his documentation. However, as one officer held the phone to inspect it, Baker abruptly attempted to snatch it back and flee, in a move which only deepened police suspicions regarding his activities.
Baker’s attempt to evade police investigation was swiftly foiled, and he was detained at the scene. A subsequent search of his car revealed a small sum of cash—often a significant clue in police investigations into suspected drug criminality.
Police then turned their attention to Baker’s mobile phone, which, upon examination, contained a trove of incriminating messages. These messages clearly indicated his involvement in the supply of illegal drugs, providing officers with the evidence needed to justify further action. Baker was promptly arrested, and attention soon shifted to his home address in Pencoed.
When officers carried out a search of Baker’s property, they discovered further damning evidence: a bag containing cocaine and digital weighing scales were found in his kitchen area. The combination of these items left little doubt about his involvement in the illegal drugs trade, as such equipment is commonly used in the preparation and distribution of controlled substances.
Baker later appeared before Cardiff Crown Court, where he entered a guilty plea to a charge of possession with intent to supply a Class A drug. The seriousness of the offences was reflected in the sentence handed down: two years and four months in prison, sending a clear message regarding the consequences of involvement in the supply of illegal drugs.
Detective Sergeant Lia Jones, representing South Wales Police’s organised crime unit, issued a statement following the sentencing. She emphasised the ongoing commitment of police teams to disrupt illegal drug operations, stating: “There is no place for drugs in our community and I’m pleased to see this sentence handed down. Our teams continue to be on the look out for those involved in criminal activity, and we are committed to bringing those involved before the courts.”
The incident stands as yet another reminder that even minor infractions, such as a routine insurance check, can lead to the exposure and prosecution of more serious criminal conduct. Police have encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activity, making it clear that intelligence from the community is a vital part of their strategy to combat the local drugs trade.
As this case illustrates, persistent diligence from local police and effective use of investigative powers continue to play an important role in keeping communities safe from the harmful effects of illegal drugs. Authorities reaffirmed their message that criminal activity will not go unnoticed, and that those found responsible will be pursued and brought before the courts.