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Police Foil Drug Importation Gang Following Luggage Theft Report
What initially seemed like a routine report of luggage theft has taken a dramatic turn, leading Metropolitan Police detectives to uncover and dismantle a sophisticated drug importation gang.
Incident Details
The investigation began when two women reported the theft of their suitcases and passports after arriving in London from Los Angeles on January 11, 2023. The swift actions of officers from the Met’s Aviation Policing Command helped trace the suspects back to a car registered to Eleanar Attard. Subsequent arrests of Attard and her husband, Nicholas Panayiotou, revealed a larger conspiracy involving drug importation and theft.
Imitation Firearm Seized
During the arrest of one of the suspects, Territorial Support Group (TSG) officers were shot at, prompting the recovery of an imitation firearm. Detective Chief Inspector Inderjit Kaur commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism in the face of danger.
WhatsApp Group Evidence
Further investigation into Panayiotou’s phone unearthed incriminating evidence of a plan to smuggle 58kgs of cannabis into the UK from the USA. A WhatsApp group chat revealed details of the operation, including a scheme to steal the drugs from the unsuspecting women tasked with importing them.
Arrests and Charges
Several individuals connected to the drug importation gang were identified and arrested, including Constantinos Zavros and Luke Wileman, who were charged with conspiracy to import and supply cannabis. Koby Haik, who fired shots at police during his arrest, was also convicted of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
Sentencing
Zavros, Haik, and Panayiotou were sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to seven years for their roles in the conspiracy. Eleanar Attard, charged with theft of the suitcases and passports, received a suspended prison sentence and a community service order.
Conclusion
The successful dismantling of this drug importation gang is a testament to the dedication and skill of Metropolitan Police officers in combating organized crime and protecting local communities from the harmful effects of drug trafficking.
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