Jian Huang, a 44-year-old man, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after admitting to possession with intent to supply class A drugs. The sentencing took place at Manchester Minshull Street Court on Monday, 23 January 2024.
Approximately 38,500 ecstasy tablets were seized by law enforcement officers during the operation. The drugs were discovered in various stages of preparation at a property being used as a makeshift lab. The tablets were found suspended in liquid, some drying, and thousands already pressed for distribution.
The arrest unfolded on April 19, 2023, when police responded to a concern for welfare at an address on Arran Street, Moston. The information was reported anonymously via email to Greater Manchester Police (GMP). Upon arrival, officers heard an argument and voices of women and children. Despite limited initial information, diligent house-to-house inquiries were conducted.
Jian Huang’s evasive behaviour concerning his female partner and children raised suspicions. Upstairs bedrooms were found padlocked, prompting forced entry. Law enforcement discovered a substantial amount of class A drugs, a tablet production machine, and associated equipment.
Detective Constable Heather Gore, part of COM North’s Challenger organised crime team, stressed the significance of public involvement in reporting crime. “Response officers did an outstanding job in bringing Huang to justice. It looked like Huang was preparing to sell these drugs, which would have likely ended up at festivals such as Parklife, so seizing such a huge quantity was a significant result,” stated DC Gore.
The seized substances included approximately 38,500 ecstasy tablets, 7 kilograms of unpressed ecstasy, and 10 liters containing methylamphetamine. The street value of the tablets alone was estimated to be around £385,000.
Challenger, Greater Manchester’s partnership response to tackling serious and organised crime, played a crucial role in disrupting this illicit operation. The collaboration aims to pursue and disrupt criminal groups, reduce risks to vulnerable individuals, and prevent them from becoming victims of various crimes.
