Fake Uber Driver Jailed for Running Major Drug Network in London

A London gang leader who used a fake Uber disguise to run a large-scale drug operation has been sentenced to 15 years in prison. Mohammed Abdul Bakye, 45, operated the "Green Eyes" drug supply line, the most significant crack cocaine and heroin network in London’s Square Mile. His tactics included switching vehicles frequently and displaying Uber stickers to evade police detection.

Detectives uncovered his operation after a two-year investigation by the City of London Police’s Serious Organised Crime Team. The case highlights the growing concern over organized crime groups exploiting transport networks to traffic illicit substances.

Drug Network and Uber Disguise

Bakye’s drug empire relied on deception and intimidation. By posing as an Uber driver, he avoided police scrutiny while moving between locations. CCTV footage captured him using a 12-reg Toyota Prius, a vehicle he changed every few weeks to maintain his cover. Authorities later confirmed that Uber had no record of his employment or completed trips.

Detective Constable Jared Fortune stated:

"One of the reasons this organised crime group was so successful was Bakye fronted as an Uber driver. He was really disciplined in terms of switching cars every three or four weeks and would put an Uber sticker in the front."

The police operation led to a major raid on August 6, 2023, at an East London property, where officers found over £45,000 worth of Class A drugs, a sawn-off shotgun, and a silencer in a locked digital safe. Bakye was later arrested in Dagenham while in possession of two mobile phones.

Exploitation of Children and Money Laundering

Bakye maintained control over his network through violence and fear. Young street dealers, including minors, were coerced into working for the gang, risking legal consequences and personal safety. His second-in-command, Naseem Ahmed, 22, managed a separate supply line called "Reeko."

The financial gains from the operation were laundered into real estate. Police investigations revealed that Bakye used his drug profits to finance the construction of a mansion in Bangladesh and acquire multiple properties in London. Ahmed, meanwhile, spent illicit earnings on luxury cars and designer clothing.

Detective Constable Fortune explained:

"For Bakye, it’s good marketing because the customer base is in no doubt who is running the line in terms of quantity and quality available. Bakye was the head of a violent and exploitative gang which used children and vulnerable people to deal the most destructive of substances, crack and heroin."

Sentencing and Further Investigations

Bakye was convicted at Inner London Crown Court on charges of conspiracy to supply drugs and possession of a prohibited firearm. Alongside him, several associates received prison sentences:

• Mohammed Abdul Bakye, 45: 15 years
• Naseem Ahmed, 22: 5 years and 1 month
• Muhammed Ismail Ahmed, 24: 6 years, 6 months
• Goulger Ahmed, 42: 2 years, 11 months
• Nazimul Islam, 43: 4 years

Two remaining defendants, Molan Miah and Imran Ahmed, are awaiting sentencing in February and August, respectively.

DC Fortune emphasized law enforcement’s commitment to dismantling such networks:

"I hope these sentences send a clear message to those involved in drug supply – the City of London Police’s Serious Organised Crime Team will work tirelessly in pursuing and disrupting criminal activity, and we are determined to continue to bring criminals to justice."