The National Crime Agency (NCA) has dismantled a major drug production ring in Leeds, with connections to former professional footballer Paul Shepherd. The investigation, initiated after a search of Shepherd’s vehicle in April 2020, has led to multiple arrests and lengthy prison sentences for those involved in the conspiracy.
Discovery of the Drug Operation
The NCA’s investigation began when officers discovered a fist-sized bag of cocaine and an EncroChat handset in Shepherd’s car. Following this initial seizure, investigators searched his residence, uncovering a Glock pistol, a bolt-action sniper rifle, and 213 rounds of ammunition. This evidence pointed to Shepherd’s involvement in a larger organized crime group that had been operating since 2019.
The Criminal Network
The investigation revealed that gang leader Carl O’Flaherty directed operations from behind the scenes. EncroChat data indicated that he instructed Shepherd to store firearms at his home and manage the cocaine discovered in his vehicle. O’Flaherty was sentenced to over 17 years in prison for his role in the operation.
The criminal enterprise involved purchasing large quantities of cocaine and chemicals necessary for producing amphetamines. Members of the gang, referred to as “chefs,” were responsible for manufacturing drugs at various properties in Leeds and Bradford.
Recent Sentences
On January 7, 2025, three associates of O’Flaherty were sentenced at Leeds Crown Court following a three-week trial. Notable sentences included:
- Michal Stanislawczuk (39), known by his EncroChat handles ‘Sizabelarm’ and ‘Polishshaman’, received 12 years for his role as a chef involved in drug production.
- David Brierley (38), who operated under the handle ‘Kingchef-uk’, was sentenced to 12 years and six months for producing amphetamines.
- Safdar Pervez (57), a taxi driver who acted as a courier for the gang, was jailed for 11 years for transporting drugs across northern England.
Additionally, Daryll Hall, one of O’Flaherty’s primary customers, received a 15-year sentence in absentia after absconding before the trial began.
Operation Venetic
The NCA’s efforts to dismantle this criminal network were part of Operation Venetic, which targeted the infiltration and takedown of the encrypted communications platform EncroChat. The operation has been hailed as a success, with NCA Operations Manager Nigel Coles stating that it has significantly disrupted the supply of harmful drugs and removed dangerous firearms from circulation.
Coles remarked, “Lengthy custodial sentences have been given to all ten members of this organized crime group… we have made our communities a safer place to live.”
Conclusion
The downfall of this Leeds-based drug conspiracy illustrates the ongoing battle against organized crime in the UK. With multiple arrests and significant prison sentences handed down, law enforcement agencies continue to work diligently to protect communities from the dangers posed by illegal drug trafficking and associated violence.
The case serves as a stark reminder of how far-reaching the impacts of such criminal activities can be, affecting not only those directly involved but also the broader community.