One of Bradford's biggest drug smugglers has been handed a 12-year prison sentence after being secretly taped discussing his deals.

Ashiq Elahi, pictured - described by detectives as "the top man" in a major heroin pipeline from Pakistan to the UK - is currently on the run from the authorities.

After a five-day trial in his absence, a jury at Bradford Crown Court found him guilty of conspiring to import heroin and supply Class A drugs.

As part of a four-month surveillance operation codenamed Trafalgar, former Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Keith Hellawell took the unusual step of allowing detectives to bug Elahi's Bradford home. Elahi, 31, was recorded discussing his illegal activities with visitors to his detached house in Branksome Court, Heaton.

Commenting on Elahi's conviction, the officer who led the 1996 operation, Detective Inspector Chris Thompson, said: "We are absolutely delighted with the outcome.

"We went for the man right at the top and as a result we have effectively closed down a major heroin supply line from Pakistan through Europe and in to the UK."

In January, Elahi absconded before his trial got under way. Detectives believed he may have returned to Pakistan and efforts are being made to trace him. During the trial the jury listened to hours of recorded evidence which included discussions about methods of importing and distributing drugs.

Prosecutor Peter Benson said although Elahi appeared to have no legitimate means of earning, he lived in a smart area of Bradford, drove a Mercedes and claimed to have properties in Pakistan and Tenerife.

When arrested, Elahi denied being involved with drugs and claimed he knew his house was bugged and was playing along for a laugh.

After the verdict, Judge Scott Wolstenholme revealed Elahi had previously received a seven-year sentence for conspiracy to import drugs. He described Elahi's activities as professional crime and said he had acted as a wholesaler in the drugs-supply chain.

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