The plan began with a seemingly innocent fishing trip. Two men, the Nuttalls, secured a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat – nicknamed “Guzzla” – and told marina staff they’d be out for a few days, angling for a quiet catch.
But the Guzzla wasn’t headed for cod and haddock. On the evening of July 30th, the Nuttalls were joined by two others: a 24-year-old Greek national and a 38-year-old Albanian man, setting a course for a rendezvous far from shore.
Under the cloak of darkness, the group ventured into the open sea. Audio recordings later recovered revealed a chilling operation unfolding – a carefully orchestrated attempt to intercept a massive drug shipment from a larger vessel, a “mother ship,” lurking on the horizon.
The Guzzla’s engine hummed as they navigated, voices discussing the estimated arrival time of the mother ship and the impending transfer of a clandestine cargo. They were preparing to collect a fortune in illicit goods, risking everything for a massive payout.
Over four hours later, they returned to the marina, attempting to haul the boat onto a trailer. But their carefully laid plans were about to unravel. National Crime Agency officers were waiting, moving in to arrest all four men on suspicion of importing Class A drugs.
A search of the vessel revealed a hidden compartment containing 14 packages, each concealing 322 smaller packages weighing a kilogram each. The contents tested positive for cocaine, boasting an astonishing 89% purity – a product worth an estimated £26.5 million on the streets.
The discovery didn’t end there. Hidden amongst the drugs, authorities also found a firearm, adding another layer of danger and severity to the operation. The seemingly simple fishing trip had exposed a sophisticated criminal network.
During questioning, the Nuttalls remained silent. The Greek national and the Albanian man offered explanations, one claiming he was simply hired for manual labor, unaware of the true nature of the cargo. But the evidence spoke volumes.
Facing overwhelming proof, the Nuttalls, along with their accomplices, eventually pleaded guilty to importing cocaine. The Greek national also admitted to possessing a firearm and ammunition. Justice moved swiftly.
Raymond Nuttall received a sentence of eleven years and three months, while Craig Nuttall was sentenced to eleven years and two months. The Greek national received a shorter term, and the Albanian man awaits sentencing in December, facing the consequences of their involvement in this dangerous scheme.
The operation underscored the relentless efforts to disrupt organized crime and prevent the flow of illegal drugs onto UK streets. It was a stark reminder of the lengths criminals will go to, and the vigilance required to combat their activities.
