Three men have been caught in a major drug bust, netting £122k from dealing cocaine and cannabis. However, they’re only required to pay back £40k. In an intense investigation, police uncovered 29kg of cannabis and 197 bags of cocaine in their flat. Let’s meet the trio: Ahmet Cenaj, 24, was busted in Newport holding nearly a kilo of cannabis in his car. He tried to play innocent, but his phones told a different story, showing texts about dealing up to 7kg of cannabis.
When police raided Cenaj’s home, they spotted Ergys Nika, 22, leaving the flat with a bag full of cannabis. Meanwhile, Jetmir Nika, 19, was inside with cocaine-filled vape cartridges. The haul? 29kg of cannabis, 197 bags of cocaine, and £37,500 in cash.
Fast forward to court: Cenaj was slammed with 12 months behind bars, while Ergys and Jetmir each got 45. At a Proceeds of Crime hearing, it turned out Jetmir made over £122k from his crimes but couldn’t cough up more than £90. Ergys was asked to pay back £38k from his total £122k gains. Cenaj, who profited nearly £15k, only had assets worth just under £3k.
Despite their big profits, justice is having them pay back what they can, leaving plenty unpaid. Share your thoughts: should the penalties be stricter, or is this the right balance?