A MAN caught with a large quantity of amphetamine on the A66 bought the drug in bulk ‘because it’s cheaper’, his solicitor said.

Arash Sansolaimani, 42, was pulled over by police while driving on the road at Cockermouth on October 14, 2022.

The officer suspected Sansolaimani may be under the influence of a substance, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said a search was carried out in the defendant's vehicle and a package of drugs was discovered. It was found to be just under 200g of amphetamine.

Police had estimated this to be valued between £1,000 and £2,000, if resold. The defendant was interviewed about the matter but gave ‘no comment’.

Ms Fee said police had investigated more serious charges, however, no evidence was found that Sansolaimani had been involved in the supply of class B drugs.

The defendant, of Guildown Avenue, London, admitted possessing a class B drug.

David Martin, defending, said: “He’s extremely ashamed of himself for what’s happened. He is genuinely remorseful. It has not happened before and has not happened since.

“There were a convergence of circumstances that led to him taking amphetamine. His sister had been arrested in Iran. He was worried about her and his mother.

“He was not sleeping. He was developing asthma. Someone recommends that he takes this substance. He paid £110 for the drugs in question.

“The drugs were for his own personal use, not for supply. He wanted to buy in bulk because it’s cheaper and meant less contact from unsavoury characters who sell drugs.

“He’s sorry for this and it’s not going to happen again.

“He is from Iran, originally. He has lived in this country for 20 years. Until the asthma was taking hold, he was a sportsman – a Judo coach.”

Magistrates fined Sansolaimani £120. He was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £48 victim surcharge.