London Drug Gang Busted in Massive EncroChat Sting
The Organised Crime Partnership (OCP), a joint force between the National Crime Agency (NCA) and Metropolitan Police, cracked down on a ruthless London drug ring. The operation kicked off last year following the takedown of the encrypted messaging app EncroChat during the nationwide Operation Venetic.
‘Neighbourhoodhero’ and His Network Exposed
Andrew Doyle, 35, from Hammersmith, was at the heart of the scheme. Known on EncroChat as ‘Neighbourhoodhero’, Doyle had a previous drugs conviction and was found leading cocaine deals across London. Police uncovered messages from April last year where Doyle and his cohorts discussed evading lockdown patrols.
“Mate, do you have a high vis and stuff for the Van? And like builder clothes? We need to look official in times like this,” Doyle messaged an associate.
His partner in crime, Derrick Canning, 50, from Isleworth, handled drug transport. Doyle also boasted about an NHS friend providing a pass to dodge police stops amid the lockdown.
Family Affair: Mother and Son Cash In on Crime
Doyle regularly traded messages with mother and son Catherine and Joe Roche from Fulham. Catherine, 63, alias ‘Diamondsareforever’, managed the cash flow. Her 29-year-old son Joe, aka ‘Cremebrulee’, handled money counting and transportation.
Joe joked about “clapping for dealers” during lockdown, highlighting their brazen attitude.
Massive Haul Seized, Long Sentences Delivered
The gang was arrested at their homes in June, where police seized nearly 50,000 MDMA pills, piles of cash, a cash-counting machine, encrypted phones, and luxury Rolex watches.
All four have now been sentenced to a combined total of 33-and-a-half years at Kingston Crown Court after pleading guilty.
OCP Manager Matt McMillan said:
“We believe this group distributed huge amounts of drugs across parts of London and the Home Counties. Evidence showed that they plotted to continue their operation during the strictest UK lockdown – a risk that didn’t pay off. The trade in class A drugs fuels violence and exploitation. Today’s sentences are another example of NCA and Met Police working together to protect the public from this threat.”
