Eleven members of an organised crime gang responsible for supplying Class A and B drugs in Denbighshire have been jailed following a major investigation. The defendants, some of whom were related, appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court this week and were convicted for their roles in supplying cocaine, ketamine, and cannabis.
Three of the gang members received custodial sentences totaling more than 22 years, reflecting the scale and seriousness of their operation.
Operation Scarab
The convictions are the result of a detailed, long-running investigation by the North Wales Police Serious and Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). Operation Scarab focused on gang activity between July and December 2024, using extensive intelligence gathering, covert policing, and surveillance to monitor suspects.
Investigators concentrated on the gang’s day-to-day activities, uncovering the roles of 11 individuals within the network. Jake Kiernan, 32, of Abergele, was identified as the head of the operation, directing the commercial-scale distribution of Class A and B drugs.
In December 2024, a coordinated raid at a Denbighshire property linked to the gang recovered 1.3 kg of cocaine and 1.6 kg of ketamine, tested at high purity with a street value exceeding £160,000.
A traffic stop on the M56 motorway also led to the arrest of 30-year-old Ryan Potts, who was found with £32,000 in cash.
Police Statement
DI Griffiths of SOCU praised the investigative team, stating:
“Over five months, officers assembled strong evidence to understand the workings of this drug enterprise and individual involvement. These convictions dismantle a supply network in Denbighshire and send a clear warning to anyone considering involvement with illegal drugs.”
He added that tackling Class A and B drug supply remains a high priority for North Wales Police, reinforcing the message that organised crime will face decisive action.
