West Midlands Police have dismantled a county lines drug network, uncovering £130,000 in cash concealed inside plant pots, along with significant quantities of cocaine and heroin.
Raids across Birmingham and Coventry
Officers from the County Lines Taskforce executed warrants at multiple addresses in both cities. During a search at one property last July, they discovered over £100,000 hidden in plant pots in the garden. In total, £131,000 in cash was seized, alongside kilograms of cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin.
Sentences handed down
Rowen Picken, 32, of Rickman Drive, Birmingham, pleaded guilty to involvement in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin. She was sentenced to six years in prison at Warwick Crown Court on June 8, 2026.
Madat Ali, 55, of Clements Street, Coventry, admitted charges including being concerned in the supply of crack cocaine and heroin, possession of cocaine with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property. He received a 12-and-a-half-year prison sentence.
Detective Sergeant Craig Tennant said: "This was a significant investigation into a highly active drugs line. Ali was meticulous in hiding a large amount of money, but our searching capabilities allowed us to find the hidden cash and drugs. Both individuals will now spend time behind bars, and another drugs line has been shut down."
Part of Operation Target
The County Lines Taskforce operates under Operation Target, the West Midlands Police's ongoing initiative to combat serious and organised crime. Officers work around the clock to disrupt and arrest those involved in firearms, drugs, money laundering, and exploitation.
