Couple jailed after NCA raid uncovers drugs and cash
A Birmingham couple have been jailed after £51,450 in cash and a large quantity of cannabis were found at their home in Shenley Green. Kristian Lleshi, 35, and Xhulijana Trimi, 29, both Albanian nationals, were arrested in September last year at the property on Cornbrook Road following an investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA).
Drugs hidden in loft and landing
Investigators discovered two large bin bags in the loft containing seven kilograms of cannabis in vacuum-packed bags, along with another two kilograms in a TK Maxx bag on the landing. The cash was concealed in various locations, including a wallet and bag in a dressing room, a bedside table, a protein shake container, a wardrobe in the main bedroom, and under a bed in the second bedroom.
High-value goods and receipts
Valuables such as gold jewellery, handbags, and shoes were also seized. The pair were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cannabis and money laundering offences. Lleshi gave a no comment interview, while Trimi claimed she was unaware of the drugs or cash, stating she had known Lleshi for only three months through a car wash in Banbury where they worked, and that they were not in a relationship. She said she bought the high-value goods second-hand on sites like eBay and Vinted.
However, NCA investigators found receipts from Selfridges showing cash purchases, contradicting her claims. Her Facebook page also revealed the couple had been in a relationship since at least 2023, with Trimi posting 'love u baby' under a photo of them in Cornwall.
Further discoveries and convictions
A second man found at the house was an immigration offender and was handed over to Immigration Enforcement. The NCA operation also led to the discovery of a cannabis farm in Dudley, where plants worth £78,000 were removed and destroyed. Lleshi and Trimi pleaded guilty at Birmingham Crown Court on October 7 and March 4 respectively. On Wednesday, June 24, Lleshi was sentenced to two years and two months in prison, and Trimi to 18 months.
NCA branch commander Saju Sasikumar said: “The account given by Trimi as to why her home contained drugs and cash completely lacked credibility. Our investigations showed she and Lleshi were aware of them, and that they were engaged in crime. The NCA works closely with our partners to disrupt the trade in illegal drugs and destroy the business models used by organised crime groups.”
