A gang involved in drug trafficking, known for their extravagant lifestyle, has been apprehended for distributing cocaine in the local community. The group, consisting of ten individuals, has been sentenced to a combined total of over 52 years in prison. Images revealed some members enjoying a spa trip in luxurious white bathrobes, while piles of cash were discovered during a police raid on their operation.
The mastermind behind the criminal operation was Paddy Nolan, 29, who imported large quantities of cocaine into Lancashire and distributed it through a network of dealers. Detectives from Lancashire Police uncovered evidence of Nolan’s significant wealth and access to large sums of cash from the drug conspiracy. One of Nolan’s close associates, Ross Boys, 29, supplied substantial amounts of cocaine to dealers in East Lancashire.
Another key figure, Darren Mott, 47, served as the gang’s cash transporter, shuttling between Manchester and Lancashire with drug money. During a police observation on November 14, 2024, Mott was found carrying £100,000 in cash in a rucksack after meeting Nolan.
Subsequently, Mott was intercepted transferring to another vehicle, where the cash was discovered. Nolan, Boys, and Mott were arrested on December 2, 2024, followed by more arrests in the following months. All members of the gang pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine and were sentenced at Burnley Crown Court.
Chief Insp Sarah Denson commended the East Targeted Crime Unit for their dedication in dismantling the gang and bringing them to justice. Nolan received a sentence of 11 years and eight months, Boys was sentenced to seven years and six months, and Mott was imprisoned for six years and nine months. Additionally, six others from Burnley received varying prison terms for their involvement in the drug trafficking operation.
