An unexpected twist in Cardiff: Lefteh Nikwan, a former Iranian soldier, found himself in handcuffs rather than the job he desperately sought. After fleeing Iran due to anti-government protests, he hoped to start afresh in the UK. But when his asylum claim was rejected, he needed money for an appeal. His solution? A risky “job” that was anything but ordinary.
Caught in a bind and unable to work legally, Lefteh started leaving his number around Chester, hoping for any way to make ends meet. The offer he received wasn’t exactly what he’d planned – he was directed to deliver cocaine and cannabis across Cardiff. This ‘courier job’ quickly brought him to the attention of South Wales Police. Officers stopped him during routine checks, discovering drugs in his car and a detailed route map on his phone leading to multiple drop-off points.
Ultimately, Judge Paul Hobson saw the evidence clearly: Lefteh was being manipulated by others to supply drugs. Despite maintaining that the drugs were for personal use, the court documentation told a different story. Given his guilty pleas, Lefteh received a 30-month prison sentence.
This case shines a light on the harsh realities some face when seeking refuge and serves as a stark reminder of the consequences when desperation leads to poor decisions. Now, Lefteh must navigate the ramifications of his actions while his future in the UK hangs in the balance, awaiting decisions by the Home Office.