Coronavirus: Drug dealer wears high-vis jacket and pretends to be key worker

A drug dealer tried to fool authorities by wearing a high-vis jacket and pretending to be a key worker during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Benjamin Evans, 26, pleaded guilty to the “possession of class A drugs with the intent to supply” at Swansea Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

On Monday, a blue Ford Focus was stopped on the A40 at Brecon bypass, Powys, Wales.

The driver of the vehicle, Evans, was wearing high visibility work clothing and stated that he was on the way home after working all night as a key worker.

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Acting on previous intelligence Evans was arrested for drug offences.

During the search of the vehicle, a large package wrapped in brown sellotape was found which was later confirmed to be cocaine, to the estimated value of approximately £57,000.

He was charged with the offence and remanded to appear in court.

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DI Steve Lloyd, leading the investigation said: “This is an excellent result for the Ystradgynlais community. Trying to pass himself off as a key worker did not succeed.

“Possessing drugs with the intent to supply does not qualify as essential work. I hope this will serve as a warning to others who wish to bring drugs into the Powys area that it will not be tolerated.

“We want to let potential criminals know that it is business as usual and we will continue to pursue those who target some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

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DI Lloyd added: “I would like to thank all the staff who worked together to quickly bring this case to court resulting in a guilty plea.

“This result will go a long way to keeping our communities safe. If anyone is worried about drugs in their community I would urge them to contact police and we will take the appropriate action

“To report anything suspicious or concerns about the selling and taking of drugs in the community click here to report online, or call 101.

“To report information anonymously, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Evans has been remanded in custody for sentencing at Swansea Crown Court on the 20 May.