In 2020, detectives from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) launched an investigation into a network of criminals communicating via the encrypted ‘EncroChat’ server, which was used exclusively by organised crime groups.
EncroChat, a global communication service with around 10,000 users in the UK, allowed criminals to communicate securely, using modified devices that facilitated messaging and calls through internet connections, bypassing mobile networks. Messages could be deleted, and the devices typically cost £1,500 for a six-month contract.
The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), alongside international law enforcement, had been investigating EncroChat since 2016 under Operation Venetic. By 2020, law enforcement agencies in France and the Netherlands successfully dismantled the server, revealing valuable data on its users.
This data was passed to EMSOU, where they uncovered evidence linking four men to the trafficking of large amounts of cocaine in Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire. The men, Singh-Hayre, Sandhu, Wright, and Williamson, were identified through their usernames – ‘luxurymist’ for Singh-Hayre and ‘supremeship’ for Sandhu – and the exposed messages detailed their roles in coordinating the supply and distribution of multiple kilos of cocaine.
Messages discussed pricing and logistics, including one that mentioned purchasing a £2,000 cash-counting machine. EMSOU’s investigation also revealed Wright and Williamson were multi-kilo customers of Singh-Hayre, further connecting them to the cocaine distribution network.
The four men were arrested and charged with drug trafficking offences, pleading guilty to their involvement as follows:
Singh-Hayre, 53, of Leicester – pleaded guilty in June 2021
Singh Sandhu, 48, of Leicester – pleaded guilty in June 2024
Wright, 48, of Coalville, Leicestershire – pleaded guilty in July 2021
Williamson, 60, of Papplewick, Nottinghamshire – pleaded guilty in November 2021
Detective Sergeant Chris Sewell, from EMSOU, commented: “Singh-Hayre was a key player in a criminal network using encrypted phones to transport large quantities of drugs. Our team worked tirelessly to connect these men to their activities, uncovering the scale of their operations.”
Sewell added, “Before the EncroChat network was shut down, we suspect over 20 kilos of cocaine were purchased for onward sale, with an estimated street value of over £1 million. These criminals believed they were beyond the law, but law enforcement agencies around the world exposed their activities, stopping further illegal drugs from reaching our streets.”
EMSOU’s investigation highlights the ongoing commitment to tackling organised crime, using advanced digital tools to disrupt criminal networks operating under the belief they were untouchable.
