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This involved an attempt to smuggle 50 kilograms of cannabis into the UK with an estimated street value of £172,000.
James Harris, 42, of Kirkstone Place, was sentenced to two years and eight months at North Tyneside Magistrates Court on December 5 after admitting to importing Class B drugs.
James Harris, 42, of Kirkstone Place, Newton Aycliffe (Image: Durham Constabulary) The case followed an investigation by the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit and UK Border Force officials at Newcastle Airport.
The smuggling operation was uncovered in August when officers intercepted two large suitcases at the airport. The suitcases, which were part of a flight from Thailand, were found to be packed with cannabis.
Table of an estimated 50 kilograms of Cannabis seized from Harris after he was caught by the Border Force to be smuggling it into Newcastle Airport (Image: Durham Constabulary) Harris was arrested on the spot and charged. He initially pleaded guilty on August 28.
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NEROCU Detective Sergeant Neil Lovat said: “This was a very complex investigation which saw us working closely with our colleagues at the UK Border Force Agency.
“This is a great result for the region, and for our communities, who are sick of the harm being caused by illegal drugs and the organised criminals pushing their sale.
“Under the banner of Operation Sentinel, we will continue to pursue offenders and disrupt criminals who seek to make a profit from selling illicit substances on our streets.”
NEROCU Detective Inspector Simon Drenon added: “It is only right that Harris was jailed for his role in this conspiracy, and I hope this acts as a warning to anyone who thinks they are above the law.
“We have specialist teams with excellent resources at their disposal that remain dedicated to carrying out lengthy and complex investigations to target and pursue suspects, no matter where they travel or reside – no criminal is safe.”
The sentencing marks another success under Operation Sentinel, a coordinated effort to tackle serious and organised crime in the North East.
Anyone with information about drug supply is urged to contact their local police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
“}]] A Newton Aycliffe man has been jailed for his role in an attempt to smuggle 50 kilograms of cannabis. Read More
