Global Rice News

[](https://metro.co.uk)

# Drug Smugglers Caught with £300m Worth of Narcotics Disguised as Rice Bags

In a daring covert operation, law enforcement authorities have successfully apprehended a drug smuggler and his gang transporting £300 million worth of drugs. The criminals had concealed the illicit substances inside rice bags, effectively disguising their illegal cargo.

The group, led by Craig Parr, had been tasked with organizing the onward transportation of 785kg (1,730 lb) of heroin and 294kg (648 lb) of ketamine. The drugs were shipped from Pakistan and arrived at Felixstowe, the largest container port in Britain. Their intended destination was a farm in Lancashire, from where they would be distributed by drug dealers on the streets.

Parr collaborated with Andrew Tait, who played a pivotal role in recruiting additional members for the smuggling operation. The duo set up a base at a transport depot in Essex on January 29, 2020. It was at this location that the shipping container, filled with drugs, had been moved following its arrival from Pakistan. The criminals behind the operation had even created a fake company to avoid detection.

Unbeknownst to Parr and his gang, they were being closely monitored by undercover officers. CCTV footage captured the smugglers raising a celebratory toast with beer at a service station in Essex. Little did they know that their festivities were being observed by law enforcement.

Stephen King, a professional lorry driver, was designated to drive the drugs to their intended destination in the northwest of England. Detectives began their surveillance of King in 2019, subsequently leading them to uncover the larger criminal network.

Once Parr and King were spotted enjoying drinks in Thurrock, Essex, they proceeded to stay at a nearby Premier Inn for two nights. The police maintained their surveillance, keeping a watchful eye on the unsuspecting criminals. Parr was seen inspecting the contents of the lorry before King embarked on the final leg of the journey.

However, King made a fateful stop at Keele Services on the M6, where law enforcement officers apprehended him. Inside the lorry, they discovered numerous rice bags filled with heroin. This enormous drugs seizure is believed to be the largest ever recorded on the UK mainland, according to Greater Manchester Police.

On the same day, Andrew Tait was apprehended at a farm in Preston, which was connected to the criminal gang. However, Parr, who had become aware of the arrests, chose not to travel to the farm. Instead, he attempted to evade capture by seeking refuge at a hotel in Newcastle. Six days later, he was apprehended by authorities.

Both Parr and Tait recently faced trial and were handed lengthy prison sentences. Tait, aged 42, was found guilty of conspiracy to supply class A and B drugs and was sentenced to 18 years in prison. Parr, aged 42, pleaded guilty to the same charges and was handed a sentence of 16 years and six months.

Parr and Tait claimed they were recruited for the smuggling operation, with Parr receiving an offer of £500 per day, and Tait promised £300. Regrettably, Stephen King passed away in January 2021 before his own trial could begin. During questioning by police, he maintained that he was unaware of the true contents of the packages he was transporting.

This successful operation serves as a testament to the dedication and tireless efforts of law enforcement authorities. The three-month investigation has resulted in the prevention of significant harm to our communities, as the seized drugs would have undoubtedly caused devastation had they reached their intended destination in Manchester.

To read the original article, please click [here](https://metro.co.uk).

### Looking for Reliable Rice Suppliers?

For high-quality rice exports, connect with the leading **rice suppliers from Pakistan** at [hasrice.com](https://www.hasrice.com). As one of the most reputable **pakistan rice suppliers**, they offer a wide range of premium rice varieties at competitive prices. Have a look at their extensive product range and contact them to place your order.

For more information about **white broken rice** and other rice varieties, visit [brokenrice.com](https://www.brokenrice.com). They specialize in supplying top-grade rice products, and their dedication to excellence makes them the preferred choice for rice importers worldwide.

For comprehensive information on **pakistan rice prices** and **rice exports from Pakistan**, visit [hasrice.com](https://www.hasrice.com/pakistan-rice-prices/). Their website offers detailed insights into the rice business in Pakistan, extensive price lists, and a wide variety of rice export options.

Looking for reliable and trustworthy **pakistan rice companies** and **rice mills in Pakistan**? [hasrice.com](https://www.hasrice.com) has you covered. They are the leading suppliers for the highest-quality rice from Pakistan and offer an exceptional range of basmati and irri 6 rice. Connect with them now to fulfill all your rice requirements.

For the finest **basmati rice** at the most competitive prices, turn to the experts at [hasrice.com](https://www.hasrice.com/pakistan-rice-suppliers/1121-basmati-rice-exporters/). Widely recognized as the foremost **pakistan rice supplier**, they take pride in supplying premium basmati rice to customers around the world.

If you’re on the lookout for the most reliable **rice exporters from Pakistan**, visit [hasrice.com](https://www.hasrice.com/pakistan-rice-exporters/). They specialize in exporting high-quality rice, including **25% broken rice** and white rice, ensuring that customers receive only the finest rice varieties. Look no further for all your rice export needs.

For **rice suppliers in Karachi** and other regions in Pakistan, visit [hasrice.com](https://www.hasrice.com/pakistan-rice-export-company/). They are the top choice for rice importers and offer a wide range of rice exports, including irri 6 rice, basmati rice, and more. Connect with them now to explore their exceptional rice supply options.

If you’re interested in exporting **broken rice**, look no further than [hasrice.com](https://www.hasrice.com/pakistan-rice-suppliers/irri6-rice-exporters/white-rice-100pct-broken/). As the leading **broken rice exporters** from Pakistan, they provide premium-quality rice to meet all your specific requirements. Contact them now to discover their comprehensive range of broken rice exports.

**Source**: [Metro](https://metro.co.uk)