Four men have been sentenced for their roles in a significant drug conspiracy operating in Accrington, with the ringleader receiving a lengthy prison term. Hasnain Ashraf, 34, was identified as the mastermind of the operation, alongside key associates Lewis Lord, 23, and Joseph Oakes, 23. The group was also connected to Lloyd Spencer, 40, who played a pivotal role as a drug ‘cook.’
The investigation, known as Operation Quantum, was spearheaded by Lancashire Police in response to the increasing prevalence of Class A drugs in the Accrington area. Authorities uncovered that the drug supply was being facilitated through a network referred to as the Max drug line. During the investigation, prosecutors revealed that the Max drug line was active through three separate phone numbers. The first was registered in September 2022, followed by another in January 2023, and the last in May 2023. Evidence presented in court established that Ashraf, also known by the alias “Nanny,” was the primary operator, sourcing drugs from Spencer in regions including Blackburn and Cheetham Hill, Manchester.
As the investigation progressed, it became clear that Ashraf and his right-hand man, Lewis Lord, were actively recruiting individuals to assist in various capacities across Accrington. They not only managed the drug distribution but also enabled their addresses to be used for drug distribution and preparation. Paul Moxham, 50, another defendant, operated as a ‘bagger’ from his residence in Altham West. Joseph Oakes was confirmed to be a runner for the operation, while Sameer Amin, 31, pleaded guilty to drug possession but was not directly involved in the conspiracy. Instead, he faced charges for possessing cannabis and having intent to supply Class A drugs.
Evidence obtained from mobile phones confiscated during the investigation revealed shocking footage of Lord and Oakes handling substantial quantities of Class A drugs and cash. Notably, on February 16, 2023, a mass message was distributed to approximately 100 users, promoting the availability of drugs. Further videos depicted Lord and Oakes assisting Moxham in the process of bagging drugs for distribution. Another individual, Aston Johnson, 20, was also implicated in the conspiracy.
The court heard the pleas entered by the defendants involved in the conspiracy. Hasnain Ashraf, of Frederick Street, Accrington, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine. Joseph Oakes, who had no fixed abode in Accrington, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply crack cocaine and heroin. Aston Johnson, of Brear Vale, Oswaldtwistle, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply crack cocaine and heroin. Paul Moxham, of Whalley Road, Altham West, entered a guilty plea for conspiracy to supply crack cocaine and heroin. Lewis Lord, of South Square, Blackpool, similarly pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply crack cocaine and heroin. Lloyd Spencer, of Hawkshead Road, Manchester, pleaded guilty to participating in criminal activities with an organized crime group. Finally, Sameer Amin, of Hovey Close, Manchester, pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis and possession with intent to supply Class A drugs.
Nicholas Roxborough, representing Ashraf, argued that his client was not the originator of the Max drug line but rather operated under the direction of higher-ups within the organization. Roxborough emphasized that Ashraf’s early guilty plea encouraged others to follow suit, thus avoiding a lengthy trial for all involved. He further defended Lord by noting the personal difficulties he faced during the time of the offenses, which led him to destructive behaviors. Zara Baqri, representing Johnson, remarked that he acted under the guidance of Lord and exhibited a degree of immaturity by becoming involved in the criminal activities.
Although sentencing was initially scheduled for August, it was postponed due to Johnson’s attempt to withdraw his pleas. However, following a hearing, he ultimately did not vacate his pleas. Judge Andrew Jeffries, during the sentencing, made clear the gravity of the offenses, stating, “All of you, save for Amin, were involved in a conspiracy to supply heroin and crack cocaine locally. Ashraf, you led this organized crime group, albeit under instructions from those higher up in the chain. Lord, you were the right-hand man. You were more than a dealer; you were assisting in running the conspiracy. You held the drugs line, and both of you recruited and employed others.”
The sentences handed down reflected the seriousness of the crimes committed. Hasnain Ashraf received a prison sentence of 10 years and 4 months, while Lewis Lord was sentenced to 8 years and 9 months. Joseph Oakes was sentenced to 2 years and 8 months in prison, with Lloyd Spencer receiving a sentence of 3 years and 9 months. Aston Johnson, due to his age, was given a 2-year detention, suspended for 2 years, along with 30 rehabilitation activity days and 150 hours of unpaid work. Paul Moxham and Sameer Amin both received 2-year prison sentences that were suspended for 2 years. Moxham was required to complete 30 rehabilitation activity days and attend a 3-month drug rehabilitation program, while Amin was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to tackle drug-related crime in the region, emphasizing the seriousness of drug distribution networks and their impact on local communities. The sentences imposed reflect not only the actions of these individuals but also serve as a warning to others involved in similar criminal activities. The authorities remain vigilant in their commitment to eradicating drug-related offenses and ensuring the safety of the community.