Following a long and complex investigation into the murder of Tomasz Waga in Roath, Cardiff, a jury has today convicted three people.
Josif Nushi and Mihal Dhana have been found guilty of murder and Hysland Aliaj of manslaughter by a jury at Newport Crown Court.
The investigation was one of the most complex and largest investigations ever undertaken by South Wales Police with enquiries across UK and Europe, including arrests being made in Albania, France, and Germany.
Detective Superintendent Mark O’Shea from South Wales Police said: “Our thoughts are with the family of Tomasz Waga who was a much-loved son, brother, father, and partner to his girlfriend.
“He was a young man who made some bad choices and was in Cardiff that day for the wrong reason, however that does not excuse what took place on January 28 last year. Events that have left a family grieving and a small baby without a father.”
Newport Crown Court heard that Tomasz and a second man Carl Davies had travelled to Cardiff from London on Thursday, January 28, last year to break into a cannabis factory at 319 Newport Road. An organised crime gang responsible for the factory was alerted, arrived at the scene and the attack took place.
Tomasz was taken from the property in a silver Mercedes, which remains outstanding, and his body was found in Westville Road, Penylan, by a member of the public at approximately 11.30pm that day. He had suffered multiple injuries.
Det Supt O’Shea added: “South Wales Police has been clear from the outset that we would get to the bottom of this complex case involving organised crime groups from south-east England and Europe.
“As this case highlights, international borders are no barrier to us pursuing people suspected of murder in the UK, we have excellent links with law enforcement colleagues across Europe including Albania who have been tremendously helpful throughout our investigation.”
Family liaison officers continue to support the Waga family.
In a statement, his family said: “Tomasz paid too great a price for the events that unfolded the night he lost his life.
“We do not wish for such tragedy to be experienced by any other family and urge individuals to consider the choices they make and the impact of their involvement, wilful or coerced, on their close ones.
“He will remain in our hearts forever.”
In respect to Carl Davies, Nushi, 27, and Dhana, 29, were found guilty of wounding with intent, and Aliaj, 31, guilty of wounding.
All three are remanded in custody. They will be sentenced on January 10.
