Hunt for drug dealer involved in multi-kilo cocaine operation on the run with links to Scotland

Police are hunting for a drug dealer with links to Scotland who is on the run from Leeds.

Kasam Hussain is wanted by West Yorkshire Police after failing to appear in court.

He was given a 14-year sentence at Leeds Crown Court last month for playing a leading role in supplying 11 kilos of cocaine as well as other offences.

Evidence, including images, from the mobile phones indicated his involvement in the operation in which he regularly transported from Bradford to Scotland before distributing it wider.

He was bailed to appear before the court earlier this year, where he was standing trial for drug and money laundering offences.

But the 38-year-old, formerly of Otley, absconded during the trial.

He was found guilty in his absence of conspiracy to supply cocaine and cannabis, as well as being concerned in the production of cannabis.

Hussain was also found guilty of an offence under the Proceeds of Crime Act and failing to comply with a notice to provide his mobile phone PIN code under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act.

West Yorkshire Police launched an appeal on Friday to locate the 38-year-old, who has known links to Scotland.

The sentencing follows an investigation by West Yorkshire Police’s Programme Precision team, which tackles serious organised crime.

Officers established Hussain’s involvement from information obtained from the encrypted Encrochat network.

The court heard Hussain, also known as Adam Manan or Adam Isaac, was arrested in February 2021 and found in possession of cocaine as well as several mobile phones.

He also transported cocaine to Herefordshire and Isleworth in London.

Encrochat data revealed Hussain’s involvement in the purchase and couriering of 11 kilos of cocaine and the exchange of over £100,000 in cash during a period between March 28, 2020 and May 30, 2020.

Detective inspector Chris Rukin of the Programme Precision team said: “Kasam Hussain has been handed a significant custodial sentence for his role in the supply of Class A drugs and other serious offences.

“But Hussain chose to evade justice by absconding during his trial.

“His conviction reflects the excellent work carried out by officers from Programme Precision, who conducted a thorough investigation to help secure a lengthy sentence.

“We are now appealing for information to locate Hussain and bring him back before the court. I urge anyone who knows of his whereabouts or has relevant information to contact police immediately.”

Contact West Yorkshire Police by calling 101 or go online at https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/LiveChat quoting reference 13210085024.

Or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.