These communications were analysed as part of Operation Venetic, Britain's response to the international EncroChat infiltration, as reported by news agency PTI.Analysis revealed that "Starkcake" coordinated the importation of 96 kg of cocaine, worth 3.6 million pounds, from Brazil during a month in 2020. Additionally, he arranged weekly shipments of up to 15 kg from the Netherlands. The messages also showed his involvement in distributing 20 kg of heroin and one kg of cocaine within Britain.Principal investigator Luke Seldon highlighted "Starkcake's" role in criminal operations, noting his connections to overseas suppliers and domestic distributors. The messages exposed his proficiency in money laundering, managing criminal proceeds worth millions.Investigators uncovered "Starkcake's" true identity through message analysis, combined with mobile phone location data and financial records. The NCA's success in removing such a significant criminal operator disrupts dangerous drug supply networks and reduces profit from harmful activities.

Source: The Times April 02, 2025 17:38 UTC