John McDuff, 40, also agreed with a criminal associate’s claim that they were responsible for operating the most extensive drugs-running network in Glasgow.

But he was brought to justice after police retrieved dozens of mobile messages between him and others on the EncroChat phone network used by criminals, which he had been using to co-ordinate his illegal activities.

The court was told how McDuff, a body builder, used the Encrochat handles “reverselily” and “Biggie-gla” to carry out the purchase, sale, supply and adulteration of controlled drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin.

McDuff, of Glasgow, was sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow after pleading guilty to being involved in serious organised crime between March and June 2020.

Sineidin Corrins, deputy procurator fiscal for serious casework at the Crown Office, said: “I hope that this conviction and sentence sends a strong message to others involved in this kind of criminal behaviour and demonstrates the ability of police and prosecutors to investigate, prepare and prosecute serious and organised crime of this nature.

“The Crown will continue working with the police and other agencies as a member of Scotland’s Serious and Organised Crime Taskforce to ensure that these crimes are detected and those responsible prosecuted using all measures at our disposal.”

“This man is now serving a prison sentence thanks to an extensive police operation, working with COPFS, to investigate a network of drug supply.

“With each case of this kind we can help reduce the harm that these drugs inflict on Scotland’s communities.”