A Manchester-based drug gang, operating through EncroChat, has been dismantled, leading to significant prison sentences for its members. John Duffy, 41, was a key figure in this operation, distributing large quantities of cocaine and heroin and handling firearms.

Operating in north east Manchester, Duffy used encrypted mobile phones to maintain the network and ensure deliveries. The Manchester Crown Court identified him as a "highly-trusted member" responsible for both drug distribution and weapons acquisition.

The operation was exposed when the National Crime Agency cracked EncroChat in 2020. Evidence showed Duffy, using the alias 'Pondraisin', orchestrated drug deliveries amounting to 10kg of cocaine and 1kg of heroin between April and June 2020.

Messages retrieved revealed Duffy's involvement in arms dealings, including agreements to lend guns to associates and instructions to hide firearms under his patio.

In December 2021, Duffy was arrested after police searched his home, uncovering more evidence of his crimes.

Despite his significant involvement, Duffy's lawyer argued he was under the direction of Nathan Loftus, the operation's leader, and hence considered "expendable." However, Judge Alan Conrad KC, sentencing him to 17 years, highlighted Duffy's readiness to handle firearms.

Duffy was ultimately convicted of conspiracy to supply drugs and possession of firearms with intent. The operation's dismantling also led to the imprisonment of Nathan Loftus for 22 years and Sean Doyle, a driver, for seven years.