Albanian members of an organized crime group who ran a 'call center' and used it to supply drugs across the north west of England have been jailed for almost 50 years. 

The call center, located in a residence, contained a mobile phone that people could call to order drugs. A special cell phone would then be used to send couriers to deliver the drugs. 

The operation was based in Preston and Chorley and was open for business 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is estimated to have supplied many kilograms of Class A drugs worth more than £2 million. 

Five key members of the gang were jailed this week. 

Key player Bekim Hasmegaj, 35, of Marchwood Close, Blackrod, was jailed for 10 years. 

Albi Hoxhaj, 25, of Lowfield Road, Stockport, who worked in the call centre, was jailed for five years and 10 months. 

Klevis Prenci, 33, formerly of Lee Lane, Horwich, was jailed for four years and two months. This is on top of a previous sentence of three years and nine months for drug possession. 

Prenci was the 'middle man' and was responsible for distributing drugs in the bazaars, collecting cash and recharging the couriers. 

Altin Niklai, 37, of Anglebank, Horwich, was jailed for five years and six months. He was involved in the staffing of the call center and the housing and care of young couriers. 

Aurel Hila, 39, of Austin Street, Leigh, played a lesser role for the gang. He fled the country and was sentenced in his absence to five years. 

Five others who acted as couriers were previously sentenced to a total of 14 years and two months for drug possession. 

In total, the total prison time for the gang members was 48 years and two months.