The ringleader behind an organised drugs network that attempted to flood the streets of London with over 300 kilos of heroin, worth an estimated street value of £23 million, has been jailed for 20 years.

Marvin Campbell, 32, from Hackney was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court for conspiracy to supply heroin, conspiracy to supply cocaine and conspiracy to launder money.

He is the final member of the network to be dealt with following a protracted and complex investigation by officers from the Metropolitan Police Service's Central Task Force.

The 18-month investigation had already seen 10 other members of the gang handed down significant sentences, totalling nearly 69 years, for their part in the conspiracy to supply heroin and cocaine.

All 11 defendants had pleaded guilty to their offences at earlier hearings.

Exposed as the kingpin behind the operation, Campbell was responsible for controlling and directing the sale of the drugs, with many of the other members referring to him as 'Uncle'. He was able to use the funds generated to enjoy a lavish lifestyle, purchasing a number of luxury cars such as a Bentley, Mercedes and Audi S5; Rolex and Audemars Piguet watches (valued at £62,500); and diamond-encrusted jewellery worth £88,000. Officers recovered £120,000 in cash, and a number of high-value and designer goods were apparent throughout his home.

As well as material items, Campbell was known to frequently splash out on expensive meals at high-class restaurants in Harrods and Claridges. On a number of occasions he had also holidayed in luxury in the USA.

DI Colin Stephenson, from the Met's Central Task Force East, said: "This was one of the most significant drugs seizures by the Met in recent times, and has seriously disrupted a major criminal network engaged in the wholesale supply of heroin and cocaine.

"The result is the culmination of a long-term and complex investigation which successfully removed a major consignment of class A drugs from the streets, and made a significant dent in the availability of heroin across the capital. Seizures of this scale prevent criminals from profiting and in turn, impact the wider harm that comes from the illegal drugs trade"

(BMcN/GK)