Drug dealers using ‘fake taxi’ in Cardiff ordered to repay thousands
TWO drug dealers who used a ‘fake taxi’ as a cover to transport drugs around Cardiff have been ordered to repay over £5,000 following their conviction.
Shahid Kahim, 26, and Parvez Uddin, 33, both from Newport, were apprehended by police after being found delivering cocaine and ketamine in a Vauxhall Insignia disguised with the logo of Premier Taxis. The vehicle had expired number plates, and when stopped by officers, was found to contain hundreds of bags of Class A drugs.
The pair were arrested on 25 March 2022 after police observed Kahim driving the fake taxi with Uddin in the passenger seat. Their operation was disrupted when a pedestrian briefly entered and exited the vehicle, arousing the suspicion of officers, who subsequently stopped and searched the car. Uddin was found holding cash, and two large bags in the back seat were filled with drugs.
A search of their homes uncovered 144 small bags of ketamine and 414 small bags of cocaine, with an estimated street value of £20,820. Kahim received a 33-month prison sentence, while Uddin was sentenced to 32 months.
At a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that Kahim had benefited to the tune of £38,000, though his available assets were valued at £5,965. Uddin, who had benefited £32,520, had assets worth only £110. Judge Eugene Egan ordered both men to repay the available amounts.
This case highlights the extreme measures drug dealers are willing to take to avoid detection, with Kahim and Uddin using the fake taxi to attempt to disguise their illegal activities. Despite their efforts to operate under the radar, they were successfully intercepted by law enforcement.
The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by police to combat drug trafficking in communities. Authorities have stressed the importance of vigilance in reporting suspicious activity to ensure public safety and security. The financial penalties imposed also underscore the significant consequences for those involved in drug-related crimes.