A man involved in criminal activities, using encrypted messaging to facilitate the illegal trade of drugs and firearms, has been sentenced to prison. Allan Hughes, 30, residing in Clydebank, Scotland, was caught on camera showcasing dangerous weapons he sought to sell, leading to a significant investigation by the Organised Crime Partnership comprising the National Crime Agency (NCA) and Police Scotland.
Hughes, also known as “Ali G”, was apprehended in June 2024 during a transaction where he exchanged £15,000 in cash and half a kilo of heroin with another individual. Prior to his arrest, law enforcement had seized several of his electronic devices, revealing numerous encrypted messages, as well as photos and videos of guns, ammunition, and drugs destined for the black market.
In November 2025, Hughes pleaded guilty to charges of serious organized crime at the High Court in Glasgow. Today, on January 8, he was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison at the same court and will be placed under a Serious Crime Prevention Order (SCPO) for three years, in addition to serving time for previous drug-related offenses.
Philip Marshall, the NCA’s Regional Head of Investigations, condemned Hughes’ actions, emphasizing his role in the illegal trade of drugs and firearms. Marshall highlighted Hughes’ use of encrypted messaging apps to offer weapons and ammunition to potential buyers, contributing to the proliferation of illicit firearms in Scotland.
Detective Chief Inspector Laura Sands of the Organised Crime and Counter Terrorism Unit reiterated the commitment to combat serious organized crime, urging the public to provide information to assist in these efforts. Collaboration with partner agencies remains crucial in tackling criminal activities of this nature and ensuring accountability for those involved. Citizens are encouraged to report any information related to organized crime by contacting the authorities through the designated hotline number 101.