Authorities are hunting for two men from Birmingham after a massive £20 million shipment of heroin, cleverly disguised within a consignment of pomegranate juice, was intercepted in the city.
The Fugitives and The Seizure
Shamut Khan, aged 56, and Matiullah Zamankhel, aged 23, both from the Washwood Heath area, are wanted for failing to answer bail. The National Crime Agency (NCA) has confirmed the pair have links to the Alum Rock and Shaw Hill Road districts of Birmingham.
Their disappearance follows a major investigation that led to the seizure of a shipping container in Birmingham in May 2023. Inside, officials discovered more than 420kg of Class A drugs hidden within bottles of pomegranate juice. The NCA stated the haul had an estimated street value exceeding £20.3 million.
Sentenced Accomplices and Criminal Methods
The operation also led to the conviction of two other local men. Colin Bartlett, 54, and Lee Bartlett, 30, from Bordesley Green, were identified as part of an organised crime group that used a sophisticated front company to import the illicit goods.
This criminal enterprise utilised a fictitious director to mask its activities and imported the heroin-laced juice from Afghanistan. The father and son were both convicted for their roles in the group's criminal activities.
Colin Bartlett received a 24-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, while Lee Bartlett was given an 18-month suspended sentence.
A Continued Manhunt and Public Appeal
NCA branch commander Derek Evans has issued a stern warning to the fugitives and those who might be assisting them. He emphasised that Khan and Zamankhel are known to have associations in Birmingham but could be anywhere in the country.
"Khan and Zamankhel will know they are wanted by the NCA and should be absolutely certain that we won’t rest until we have tracked them down," Mr Evans stated. He also cautioned that anyone deliberately helping the men or obstructing the investigation could face arrest.
The NCA is urging the public to come forward with any information. If you see Shamut Khan or Matiullah Zamankhel, you are asked to contact the National Crime Agency immediately on 0370 496 7622. Anonymous reports can also be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
