Specialist detectives from West Yorkshire Police’s Programme Precision arrested Bradford drug trafficker Zulfiqar Shah after uncovering a record £1.6 million cash stash hidden in secret compartments at his Rhylstone Mount home.
The operation, which took place in August and October 2023, also led to the discovery of heroin, ketamine, and drug adulterants. This marks the largest single criminal cash seizure in West Yorkshire’s history.
During an initial search on 7 August 2023, officers found £230,000 in cash, along with 2.5kg of heroin and 244g of ketamine. Further intelligence prompted a second warrant on 14 October, which revealed approximately £1.4 million concealed inside two bedroom wardrobes.
The full investigation uncovered a total of £1,625,693.82 in criminal cash. Shah, aged 58, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply heroin and ketamine, as well as conspiracy to possess criminal property. His partner, Joanne Leriche, 51, was also charged and jailed for allowing her premises to be used for drug supply.
At Bradford Crown Court, Shah was sentenced to 16 years and six months in prison. Leriche received a 13-month sentence earlier this year. Both remain in custody as the justice process continues.
Detective Inspector Chris Rukin commented, “Shah was someone heavily involved in the supply of Class A drugs and the huge amount of money he was found with clearly illustrates the scale of his involvement. This seizure highlights the harm illegal drugs cause in our communities, fueling crime and violence. Our investigation demonstrates the commitment to bring those profiting from drugs to justice.”
The seized cash will be subject to a confiscation hearing under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. Recovered assets will be reinvested into efforts to combat crime across West Yorkshire, including funding for safer communities.
Originally published by UKNIP.
