A MAN was sentenced to five years behind bars this week, following an investigation by the National Crime Squad into the importation of £200,000 of cannabis resin into the UK.

Martin Mayers was sentenced at Preston Crown Court, following an operation by the then North West Regional Crime Squad, which began on October 2, 1996.

Investigating officers had recovered a large quantity of cannabis resin concealed in a metal pallet containing windscreens in Wigan.

Forensic examinations of the vehicle containing the crates later revealed fingerprints identical to Mayers'.

Two associates of Mayers were arrested and charged with possession, with intent to supply controlled drugs.

Following the seizure of the crate, Mayers' small vehicle repair business in Bolton was searched and several items forensically matched the crate.

In October 1996 Mayers managed to flee the UK for Spain.

In December 1997 officers tracked him down after he moved to Southern Ireland.

In January 1999 Mayers again entered Ireland on a false passport. He was arrested on January 20, 1999, and detained in Dublin.

After an initial hearing at Chorley Magistrates Court on April 16, Mayers appeared at Preston Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to import cannabis resin.

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