'Cocaine haul was hidden in rice steamer'

THE interception of a kilo of cocaine disguised in a rice steamer sent from Bolivia led to a man being jailed for 8 years today (Wednesday).
Camden detectives traced the package to an address in West Hampstead after it was intercepted by Customs and Excise.
Alan Murphy, 34, was sentenced at Blackfriars Crown Court for drugs importation and possession with intent to supply, after he was arrested near his home in Olive Road in August.
He was found with cannabis and cocaine, and pleaded guilty in November. A second man was jailed for six and a half years in connection with the smuggling offence.
Detective Inspector Adrian Lewis from Camden police said: "This is yet another example of the excellent work undertaken by Camden's Crime Squad. This is a significant drugs seizure, and has seriously disrupted a major criminal network. The fact that Alan Murphy pleaded guilty demonstrates the thoroughness of the investigation we conducted and the overwhelming evidence we obtained. Today's sentencing is yet another blow to those who attempt to supply drugs in London."