Prison-based methamphetamine importer sentenced today

A 42-year old man who arranged the importation of methamphetamine from his Rimutaka Prison cell has been sentenced to 13 years and two months.

Justice David Collins today sentenced Egyptian national Mohamed Soliman Hussain Atta in the Wellington High Court after he pleaded guilty to seven representative charges of importing methamphetamine and one charge of conspiracy to supply methamphetamine.

Atta’s offending had occurred from within his cell at Rimutaka Prison over three months in 2014, using a number of cell phones, including one supplied by former Corrections officer Alofainu’u Tuisamoa.

Police Detective Sergeant James Withington of the National Organised Crime Group said Atta had used his international contacts to run the methamphetamine importation ring before being exposed by the joint Police, Corrections and Customs investigation Operation Gandolf.

In total 11 people involved with the drug dealing have been sentenced.

Three more are yet to be sentenced.

“Those convicted of importing methamphetamine were either patched gang members, or had strong gang associations, which demonstrates gang involvement in this trade.

The cooperative approach between Police, Customs, and Corrections has enabled us to identify and put a stop to their offending,” Detective Sergeant Withington said.

“Any members of the public who are affected by methamphetamine are encouraged to reach out for help.

With support, you can get free of this drug.”

ENDS

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