Police appeal for help to find fugitive drug dealer

Police have appealed for help to trace a heroin dealer who has been jailed for 14 years in his absence after failing to show up at court.

Shafiqul Islam Ali was sentenced on 13 January after being found guilty of conspiracy to supply heroin and cocaine following a trial at Leeds Crown Court.

West Yorkshire Police said he remained at large and have issued an appeal for help to locate him.

A force spokesperson said Ali, of Grafton Street, Bradford, had been given a "lengthy sentence that reflects the seriousness of his crimes".

Ali, who is described as Asian, of slim build, with short dark hair, was also found guilty of possession of criminal property.

The court heard the offences took place in Leeds between May and July 2020.

Det Insp Chris Rukin said: "Ali was convicted of these serious offences after a four-day trial.

"We are now appealing to the public for information to help locate Ali and bring him to custody.

"If anyone has any information that may help our enquiries, please come forward with those details."

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