A county lines drugs gang operating in Dudley have been jailed for a combined total of more than 20 years.

Sajad Hussain, Shahoon Qurban, Stacey Bryan and Michael Hill had all been selling heroin and crack cocaine to known drug users in the Dudley area. 

Operating the H line, the gang would send bulk text messages to potential buyers advertising drugs for sale.

Between March 11, 2022, and December 2, 2022, the main phone number in the drugs operation sent out more than 27,000 text messages.

As part of investigations by West Midlands Police, officers from the County Lines Taskforce carried out CCTV and mobile phone enquiries and identified Qurban, Bryan, Hill and Hussain.

In December 2022, officers executed warrants at the home addresses of all four drugs gang members where they seized mobile phones, cash and drugs.

They were all arrested and subsequently charged with conspiracy to supply Class A drugs.

Last month, Sajad Hussain, aged 51, of The Broadway, Dudley, who was found guilty at an earlier hearing, was jailed for nine years.

Stacey Bryan, aged 38, of Iron Foundry Drive, and Michael Hill, aged 37, of Windsor Crescent, both admitted charges and were jailed for four years each.

Last Friday (October 18), Shahoon Qurban, aged 39, of Richmond Road, who also admitted charges, was jailed for nine years and seven months.

Detective Constable Thomas Reece, who led the investigation, said: "This is a significant victory in our fight against drug trafficking.

"After months of relentless investigation, we've successfully dismantled a complex drug ring that has been wreaking havoc in our community.

"This operation not only highlights the dedication and teamwork but also underscores our commitment to keeping our streets safe. We will continue to work tirelessly to hold those who exploit and harm our neighbourhoods accountable."