Tonypandy man jailed for four years for drug trafficking

A Tonypandy man has been sentenced to four years in prison for running a drug supply operation across the Rhondda Cynon Taf area.

Shabaz Arshad, 32, of Penrhiwfer Road, Penrhiwfer, appeared at Merthyr Crown Court on Thursday, December 18, where he was sentenced for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, including crack cocaine, cocaine, and heroin, as well as for acquiring, using, and possessing criminal property. He had pleaded guilty to all charges on November 21.

The case stems from a coordinated operation on October 20, 2025, when officers from South Wales Police and the Metropolitan Police Service were conducting patrols in Pontypridd. Arshad had been identified as a suspect in an ongoing investigation into the supply of Class A drugs, believed to be operating a drugs line from July 6 to October 20, 2025.

Officers apprehended Arshad whilst he was driving a grey VW Golf in the Porth area, shortly after he was observed entering a local supermarket car park. Upon his arrest, officers seized an iPhone and £280 in cash from his possession, with an additional £65 found in his pocket. A black Nokia phone, believed to be linked to his drug operations, was also located in his vehicle.

A subsequent search of Arshad’s home and vehicle uncovered significant evidence, including £1,075 in cash, various drug substances, and scales used for measuring. The drugs tested positive for cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin.

Detective Sergeant Gareth Jenkins stated: “Today’s sentencing underscores our commitment to tackling drug-related crime in our communities. We will continue to work tirelessly to disrupt and dismantle drug supply networks. Arshad’s actions have had serious repercussions, and this case serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in South Wales.”