Drugs Gang Sentenced for Cocaine Distribution in Worthing

Six men involved in a cocaine distribution network between London and the Sussex coast have been sentenced following an investigation by Sussex Police’s Serious Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

The operation, which led to the seizure of approximately 850 grams of cocaine and over £32,000 in cash, exposed the network’s activities, resulting in significant sentences for those involved.

The investigation revealed that Naim Shala, a courier, regularly transported cocaine from Wembley to Worthing between June and October 2022. Upon delivery, the drugs were prepared for street sale by Kristian Buqa, who was responsible for distributing the cocaine to local drivers Christian Violi and Saimir Jaho. The operation was directed by Fatma Hasa, who controlled the ‘Gesti’ County Line from Wembley. In total, an estimated four kilograms of cocaine, valued at up to £392,000, were distributed locally.

Sentences handed down include six years and nine months for Hasa and six years for Buqa, while Shala received five years. Jaho and Violi were given suspended sentences, and Xhonatan Matei, linked to the operation later, was sentenced to three years.