UK Gang Sentenced for Cocaine Smuggled in Books to Australia
Three members of a criminal gang have been jailed for a combined total of 12 years after being convicted of exporting cocaine hidden inside travel books destined for Australia. The sentencing took place at Cambridge Crown Court, following a detailed investigation by law enforcement agencies.
Details of the Offences and Sentences
Troy Batchelor, aged 49 from Whittlesey, and Luke Mills, aged 46 from Peterborough, both admitted to evading the prohibition on the exportation of cocaine. James Kulesza, aged 46 from Peterborough, pleaded guilty to participating in the activities of an organised crime group. On Friday, Batchelor received a six-year prison sentence, Mills was sentenced to four years, and Kulesza was ordered to serve two years and one month.
Investigation and Seizures
The Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), in collaboration with Border Force, identified and intercepted four suspicious shipments. These consignments, dispatched from sites in Stamford, Lincolnshire, and Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, were found to contain cocaine concealed within books. Investigations revealed that three additional parcels had already reached Australia and were seized by customs authorities.
During raids on March 20, 2025, Batchelor, Mills, and Kulesza were arrested. Searches recovered items including an extendable baton and a firearm. Mobile phone data later led officers to an address in Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire, where a further 8.8kg of cocaine was discovered alongside several Lonely Planet travel books with tampered covers.
Police Statement and Broader Implications
Detective Sergeant James Paget of ERSOU's Regional Organised Crime Unit emphasised that the case involved meticulous investigative work to intercept the consignments and prevent a substantial quantity of cocaine from reaching Australia. He added that the investigation also uncovered links to drug importation activities, highlighting the extensive criminal capabilities of the organised crime group involved.
The actions of ERSOU and Border Force are estimated to have prevented over 12kg of Class A drugs from leaving the UK, underscoring the ongoing efforts to combat international drug trafficking networks.
