Two Birmingham drug dealers turned to artificial intelligence for advice on cultivating potent cannabis—but their high-tech approach did not save them from arrest. Alexander Harrison, 36, and Aadil Jabbar, 31, were caught after police stopped their vehicle in the Southside area of Birmingham in January, detecting a strong cannabis smell emanating from inside.
Police search uncovers drugs and cash
Officers searched the pair, both from Birmingham, and found quantities of Class-B cannabis alongside more than £1,000 in cash. A subsequent search of locations linked to them led to the discovery of approximately 160 individual wraps of cocaine and heroin. Further inquiries revealed the duo had discussed West Midlands Police 'news articles' about drug seizures and had consulted an AI tool to learn how to produce a strong strain of cannabis.
The investigation culminated in a raid on an address associated with the pair, where additional cannabis and cash were seized. In February, Jabbar, of Whitehead Road, Birmingham, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply heroin and possession with intent to supply cocaine. Harrison, of Dudley Road, Birmingham, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply crack cocaine and possession with intent to supply heroin at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday, July 20. Both will be sentenced in September.
Police warn of ongoing drug enforcement
Detective Constable Amelia Rose of West Midlands Police said: “We’re constantly alert to the signs of drug dealing - and we’re ready to take action. In this case, stopping a vehicle led to the discovery of a large quantity of drugs and cash and evidence that linked these two to the supply of drugs.”
Detective Inspector Tom Lyons added: “Drug crime brings harm to communities. That is something that residents and businesses have been telling us in the areas we’ve worked in. We’ll keep working with our partners to tackle it and we’ll keep listening to the intelligence you provide, as we work hard to make communities safer for everyone.”
AI misuse in drug production raises concerns
The case highlights a growing trend of criminals exploiting AI technology for illegal purposes. While AI can provide legitimate information on horticulture, its misuse to produce controlled substances poses new challenges for law enforcement. West Midlands Police continue to monitor such activities and urge the public to report suspicious behaviour.
