27 July 2026
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Isle of Man News

Operation ‘Bobcat’ results in 11 year prison sentence

Today (February 9) Shaun Robert Milligan was sentenced to 11 years in prison following him pleading guilty to possessing diamorphine (heroin) with intent to supply and being concerned in its importation to the Isle of Man.

The 47 year old local man was also sentenced for money laundering offences following over £20,000 in cash being taken from him.

Shaun Robert Milligan and Frank Harrison

Frank Harrison, also from Douglas, who acted as facilitator in receiving the drugs has also been jailed and received 7 year sentence.  

Prison sentence

This was following Operation Bobcat undertaken by the Serious & Organised Crime Unit whereby in July of 2023, the Operation focussed on Mr Milligan, which resulted in 277 grams (10 ounces) of the drug being seized. 

Shaun Milligan has been involved in the supply of controlled drugs for over 26 years on the island, having first been dealt with for drug supply in 1997.

Detective Inspector Jamie Tomlinson of the Serious & Organised Crime Unit commented:

“Since that date, he was subsequently convicted of further drug supply offences and we believe he remained a prominent figure in the local drug scene for many years despite his previous incarcerations. 

“He was arrested, along with Mr Harrison, having taken possession of 277 grams of heroin shortly after it had been delivered to Harrisons address in Douglas. He had been instrumental in arranging its production, we believe from a Merseyside based Organised Crime Group.”

Detective Inspector Jamie Tomlinson of the Serious & Organised Crime Unit

According to Tomlinson, the length of this sentence reflects the seriousness of the matter and the commodity involved.

He added: “Heroin is a horrific substance which ruins lives, causes loss of life and leads to terrible addiction which in some cases makes users turn to crime in order to feed their habits. This is a welcome sentence which has taken a ruthless drug dealer off our streets for a significant period.”

The Isle of Man Constabulary will continue to work tirelessly to target the likes of Mr Milligan and will also take robust action against anyone willing to receive controlled drugs at their address for onward supply.

“We will also continue to work closely with our UK based partners in order to identify the UK based criminals and also seek to bring them to justice here on the island,” Tomlinson said.

Charlie Morrey is a Broadcast & Multi Media Journalist for Manx.News and also is a Presenter on Energy FM. Charlie has previously written for Isle of Man Newspapers, magazines and also started her broadcasting career with Manx Radio.

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