LONDON – A Pakistani-origin woman has been sentenced to more than 21 years in prison in the UK. The case is linked to one of the country’s largest drug smuggling operations in recent years.
Sidra Nosheen, aged 34, was living in Bradford at the time of her arrest. UK authorities found her guilty of smuggling heroin from Pakistan into the UK. She was part of an organized criminal network operating across the country.
The UK’s National Crime Agency led the investigation. Officials said Nosheen played a central role in the drug smuggling network. She helped manage shipments and distribution within the UK.
During a raid on her home last year, officers made a major discovery. They recovered heroin worth more than $10 million. The drugs were hidden in clothes, buckets, wallpaper rolls, and travel bags.
Investigators said the concealment methods showed careful planning. They described the operation as highly organized and well-funded. The scale of the seizure shocked authorities.
The investigation also uncovered strong links to Pakistan. Nosheen was found to be in frequent contact with facilitators based there. Her mobile phone contained hundreds of messages.
These messages outlined shipment routes and delivery schedules. They also discussed distribution plans across the UK. Officials said the evidence proved her deep involvement in drug smuggling activities.
The National Crime Agency revealed that Nosheen had already distributed several kilograms of heroin. At one point, she received £250,000 from a criminal group in Bradford. The money was linked directly to drug sales.
During court hearings, Nosheen admitted her role. She confessed to importing and distributing heroin. Prosecutors said her admissions supported the digital and physical evidence.
The judge described her as a key figure in the operation. He said she appeared to live a simple life. However, he noted that her actions told a very different story.
The court heard that her main motive was financial gain. The judge said she showed no concern for the harm caused. He stressed the serious impact of drug trafficking on communities.
Sidra Nosheen was sentenced to 21 and a half years in prison. The sentence reflects the scale and seriousness of the crimes. Authorities said the punishment sends a strong message.
After completing her prison term, she will be deported from the UK. Officials confirmed she will not be allowed to remain in the country.
In other news read more about Six Pakistanis Arrested in Saudi Arabia for Smuggling 71kg of Drugs
The case highlights the UK’s strict stance on organized crime. Authorities said they remain committed to dismantling international drug smuggling networks.
