Drug Dealer Caught After Crashing Into Off-Duty Police Officer

A drug dealer operating illegally in Norwich was arrested after colliding with an off-duty police officer while riding an electric bike at high speed.

Illegal Immigrant Busted with Cocaine and Knife

Vangjel Cera, a 21-year-old Albanian national who had entered the UK illegally, was riding at a “significant speed” on Rose Lane in central Norwich when he crashed into a car driven by the off-duty officer as it turned into a nearby car park.

The officer approached to check on Cera’s condition, but the suspect attempted to flee and threatened to stab him. Despite efforts to calm the situation, uniformed officers arrived shortly after and detained Cera near the Jet petrol station.

Upon searching him, police found cocaine in deal-sized packets worth around £1,600, along with cannabis, over £160 in cash, and a mobile phone. Investigators later discovered that Cera was receiving directions on where to deliver drugs via the phone.

Second Arrest Within Three Months

Although released while further investigations were underway, Cera was arrested again on March 15. This time, he was seen riding an electric bike at high speed along Dereham Road, with his hood up and face covered. Officers followed him to Douro Place, where he was spotted near residential flats holding a mobile phone.

Cera attempted to flee once more but was stopped by police. A search revealed he was carrying another batch of cocaine valued at £1,600, more cannabis, cash, and a lock knife. His phone again showed messages directing him to distribute drugs.

Court Sentencing and Background

Cera, who has no fixed address and required an interpreter in court, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs (cocaine), two counts involving Class B drugs (cannabis), and one count of possessing a bladed weapon.

Defence lawyer Andrew Thompson stated that Cera had no prior criminal record either in the UK or Albania. He added that Cera had entered the country in hopes of finding legal work to support his ill mother and sister. However, he was coerced into drug dealing after being told he owed a debt of over £10,000 to those who facilitated his journey to the UK.

Judge Andrew Shaw acknowledged the defendant had been manipulated, but emphasized that dealing Class A drugs while carrying a knife was a serious offense. He sentenced Cera to 42 months in prison, stating that no one carries a knife without being prepared to use it for threats or violence.

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