A Gloucester man has been sentenced to prison after a significant amount of cash was discovered hidden in the loft of his home, confirming his involvement in drug dealing.
Santiago Sadiku, 34, of Vauxhall Road, pleaded guilty to selling controlled substances at Gloucester Crown Court last Thursday (September 10). The offences came to light following a police operation in the Barton area of Gloucester.
On Monday, August 10, officers from the Gloucester Neighbourhood Support Team, alongside the Dogs Unit and Drone Unit, executed a drugs warrant at the property. The search uncovered quantities of cocaine, cannabis, and a substantial sum of money.
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Among the items seized was Sadiku’s mobile phone. Forensic examination by a Drugs Expert Witness uncovered WhatsApp messages that provided clear evidence of Sadiku selling cannabis and cocaine.
In the loft, authorities found a yellow JD Sports bag containing £20,000 in banknotes. Additionally, a designer bag in the bedroom held £4,500 in English banknotes and £20 in Scottish currency. There was also a plastic bottle filled with coins amounting to £2,100.
The total of over £26,600 in cash reinforced the case against Sadiku for drug trafficking activities.
Following his guilty pleas, Sadiku was sentenced to three years' imprisonment.
A spokesperson for the Gloucester and Forest Local Policing Area commented: “We are pleased that Sadiku has been removed from our streets and can no longer impact our communities through drug dealing. This case exemplifies our ongoing commitment to disrupt illegal drug activity across Gloucestershire.”
Members of the public who have concerns or intelligence about drug dealing are encouraged to report it to the police via the official website or, to remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers.