Police and prosecutors have welcomed lengthy sentences imposed on a drugs gang – and say they will provide a deterrent to others.

A hearing in court on Friday November 20 concluded the sentencing of a number of defendants involved in a multi-jurisdictional organised crime group responsible for importing large quantities of controlled drugs to the Isle of Man from the United Kingdom and the laundering of significant quantities of money.

The methods this group sought to utilise included sophisticated concealment methods as well as threats and coercion towards vulnerable individuals to persuade them to traffic controlled drugs into the Island.

In a joint statement, police and the Attorney General's Chambers said: ’The lengthy and proactive police operation, led by the officers of the Drugs and Organised Crime Unit, employed a number of advanced evidence gathering techniques, utilising modern technology to their advantage, which enabled the Prosecution to show the links between the members of the group.

’This not only included the couriers responsible for the actual physical importation of drugs and laundering of drug money, but those in senior positions within the organised crime group, responsible for the management of such activities.

’The lengthy sentences imposed by the Deemster are welcomed as providing a deterrent to those who may consider becoming involved in such activities on such an organised scale.

’The emergence of organised crime activity in any form presents a threat to the way of life enjoyed by a law abiding community on the island and the public of the Isle of Man should take comfort that the Constabulary will continue to target and investigate such groups and will work proactively with prosecutors at an early stage in the investigation to secure the conviction of such serious offenders where prosecution is appropriate.’

For the full details on this case and the sentences imposed on the men, see today’s Examiner, available in shops and online now.