'Ruthless drug dealer' who imported heroin to Manx shores jailed for 11 years

Follows Isle of Man Constabulary's 'Operation Bobcat'

A ‘ruthless drug dealer’ who imported heroin to the Isle of Man, concealed in tubes of silicone, has been jailed for 11 years.

Shaun Robert Milligan, of Manor Woods in Douglas, was sentenced at Douglas Courthouse today (9 February).

The 47-year-old had pleaded guilty to being concerned in the production of the Class A drug and possessing 277 grams of it with intent to supply.

The drug, which came to the Island in July last year, had a street value of between £37,000 and £75,000; Milligan also accepted possessing more than £20,000 in criminal cash.

Frank Harrison, of Brisbane Street in Douglas, acted as a facilitator for the heroin which was delivered to his home; the 42-year-old was jailed for seven years.

“Heroin is a horrific substance which ruins lives, causes loss of life and leads to terrible addiction which in some cases makes users turn to crime in order to feed their habits.” – Detective Inspector Jamie Tomlinson

The Isle of Man Constabulary says it welcomes the sentences which follow ‘Operation Bobcat’.

Detective Inspector Jamie Tomlinson, of the Serious and Organised Crime Unit, says: “‘Shaun Milligan has been involved in the supply of controlled drugs for over 26 years here on the Island having first been dealt with for drug supply in 1997.

“Since that date he was subsequently convicted of further drug supply offences and we believe he remained a prominent figure in the local drug scene for many years despite his previous incarcerations.

“He had been instrumental in arranging its production, we believe, from a Merseyside based organised crime group.

“The length of this sentence reflects the seriousness of the matter and the commodity involved.

"This is a welcome sentence which has taken a ruthless drug dealer off our streets for a significant period.”

The constabulary adds it will continue to work ‘tirelessly’ to target people like Milligan and will take ‘robust action’ against anyone willing to receive controlled drugs at their address for onward supply.

Detective Inspector Tomlinson spoke to Manx Radio: