UK Drug Gang Leader and Associates Sentenced in Major Cocaine and Heroin Operation

A significant county line drug operation that supplied heroin and crack cocaine across multiple towns in the West Midlands has been dismantled, resulting in substantial prison sentences for seven individuals. The group, known as the 'P Line,' was found to be responsible for distributing large quantities of Class A drugs and was valued at over one million pounds.

West Midlands Police County Lines Taskforce (CLTF) initiated an investigation into the drug line in 2023. Detectives discovered that the phones used to operate the line were involved in thousands of calls and messages, indicating a highly active enterprise. The court heard that the group operated nearly around the clock, working shifts to meet the demand for drugs.

In 2025, enforcement actions were carried out across various addresses, leading to the arrest of all seven men involved in the operation. During the investigation, officers reviewed mobile phones belonging to some of the gang members, uncovering footage of them displaying cash and drugs.

The group pleaded guilty to multiple offenses at Birmingham Crown Court and were sentenced on Wednesday. Zuhayb Abdi, 30, identified as the leader of the line, was jailed for seven years after admitting to two counts of conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin. Waqas Hussain, 27, who was second in command, received a five-year sentence for two counts of conspiracy to supply cocaine and diamorphine.

Asa McIntosh, 21, garnered significant attention after police bodycam footage captured him screaming in terror when he was woken by officers during an arrest. McIntosh was jailed for nine years and nine months for two counts of conspiracy to supply cocaine and diamorphine. His reaction to being apprehended has since become a subject of widespread amusement on social media.

Other members of the gang also received considerable prison sentences. Bradley Whatmore, 25, was sentenced to 10 years and six months for conspiracy to supply cocaine and diamorphine, along with possession with intent to supply cannabis. Hakeem Ali, 24, received a sentence of 10 years and five months for two counts of conspiracy to supply cocaine and diamorphine. Quarnay Lee-Taylor, 25, was jailed for 12 years and seven months for similar offenses.

Rees Macdonald, 31, received a six-year sentence for two counts of conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin, and one count of kidnapping. Police highlighted the meticulous planning by the group to ensure the drug line operated continuously.

Detective Sergeant Adam Buzzard of the CLTF stated that the group ran a significant drug operation across the Black Country and surrounding areas. He emphasized the success of the investigation in identifying those involved and securing lengthy jail terms, adding that police are committed to disrupting supply lines and combating drug-related harm in communities.