Deported Albanian Drug Dealer Caught Again After Illegal Return

Valentin Roci, a 27-year-old Albanian, was apprehended after illegally re-entering the UK. He confessed in Basildon Crown Court to having returned via dinghy after being deported in 2024. Roci claimed he was forced to sell drugs to pay a £4,000 debt to the smuggling gang that facilitated his return.

The judge, however, dismissed Roci's claims, noting his prior drug-related arrest. The court ordered his deportation for a second time and the donation of his seized cash to charity. Prosecutor Philippa Page detailed Roci's arrest on March 21st. Police pulled over a Ford Mondeo with a faulty brake light in Southend, Essex, where Roci was driving without insurance or a license.

During the stop, officers suspected Roci was concealing drugs due to his behavior. A search revealed £1,195 in cash, eight wraps of cocaine, and one wrap of cannabis. Following his arrest, Roci remained silent, refusing to answer questions or provide information about his address or phone. He eventually pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including possession of cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply, possessing criminal property, driving without insurance, and driving without a license.

The prosecutor highlighted Roci's previous arrest in 2024 for drug possession and illegal entry, which resulted in deportation. Defense solicitor Olivia Rawlings stated that Roci owed a debt to those who brought him back into the country and was subsequently put to work. Judge Collery expressed skepticism about the claims of coercion, citing Roci's possession of a car and a significant amount of cash. He suggested Roci was motivated by financial gain. Mrs. Rawlings stated that Roci's cut of the money was only £200. Judge Collery stated he would sentence Roci on the basis that he had a significant role in the drug-dealing gang.