£20 Million Cocaine Haul Bust on M6: Gang Jailed After Dramatic Interception
A massive £20 million cocaine shipment destined for the North of England, including Warrington, has been smashed by police. Four gang members, led by Jamie Simpson, were slammed with almost 35 years behind bars after being nabbed on the M6 motorway.
Biggest Inland Cocaine Bust in Cheshire History
On the evening of 2 August 2018, Jamie Simpson, Clare Smith, Andrew Daniels, and Dean Brettle were caught red-handed as they travelled from Rochester, Kent, with 186kg of cocaine. The drugs were hidden in cunningly modified vans featuring secret metal drawers beneath false floors.
Cheshire Constabulary’s Serious and Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) stopped the gang northbound between junctions 19 and 20 on the M6. The haul was the largest inland cocaine seizure ever recorded in Cheshire.
Covert Operation Exposes Wide-Ranging Crime Network
The bust was part of Operation Dreadnought, a 14-month undercover probe targeting a Warrington-based organised crime gang run by Jamie Oldroyd, owner of ProLease vehicle leasing. Oldroyd was already sentenced to over 14 years in a related trial.
Simpson and Oldroyd, both top dogs of their crime groups, conspired to flood areas from Carlisle to London with cocaine. Their network included safe houses, courier rings, and sophisticated communication tactics to evade police – including switching phones and cars constantly.
Organised Crime Gang’s Ruthless Reach
- Safe houses in Warrington, including on Liverpool Road, were used to stash and distribute drugs.
- Oldroyd’s crew supplied multiple cities: Manchester, Darlington, Carlisle, and London.
- Close ties with Merseyside gangsters ensured supply chains stayed intact.
- Couriers like Moses Webber organised nationwide deliveries until arrested.
Strong Words from Police and Crime Boss
“This operation not only smashed the largest cocaine haul in Cheshire history but wiped out two organised crime groups,” said Detective Chief Inspector Mike Evans. “Simpson and Oldroyd’s arrogance didn’t stop us from shutting them down. Cheshire will always be a tough ground for criminals.”
David Keane, Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, added, “This huge seizure has undoubtedly saved lives. I urge anyone who suspects criminal activity to report it. Together, we can keep Cheshire safe.”
Get Involved: Spot the Signs and Report Crime
Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to Cheshire Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. Your tip could crack the next big case.
