Operation Uncovers Large-Scale Supply
A former Royal Mail logistics worker has been sentenced to 6 years and 9 months in prison following a major investigation by Thames Valley Police. Amjad Ali, 50, of Slough, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on 3 September after pleading guilty to charges including being concerned in the supply of Class B drugs (cannabis), theft, and possession of criminal property.
Exploiting Logistics Networks
Investigators found that Ali had used his position at the Slough Royal Mail centre to intercept parcels he suspected contained cannabis. Over the course of a year, between 2024 and 2025, he relabelled these packages to be delivered to alternative addresses under his control.
During raids on 12 December 2025, officers from the Berkshire East Disruptions Team discovered £1,185,420 in cash at a storage facility and a further £42,290 at his home. Police described the seizure as the largest in the force's history, underscoring the significant, untaxed profits generated by the illicit cannabis trade.
Policing and Reform
While the sentencing highlights the scale of criminal enterprise operating within the illicit market, the case also draws attention to the ongoing challenges of drug enforcement in the UK. Critics of the current prohibitionist model argue that the existence of such high-value black market operations is a direct consequence of the lack of a regulated, legal cannabis framework. By failing to provide a legal route for supply, the current system leaves the market entirely in the hands of criminal networks.
PC Filippo Brancato of Thames Valley Police stated: "We will continue to target those who facilitate the drugs trade and ensure they are held accountable for their actions." For further information regarding this investigation, contact the Thames Valley Police media office.
Source: Thames Valley Police
