A Rochdale drug-dealer who filmed himself singing in a cannabis farm has been jailed for five years and eight months after an investigation by GMP’s Challenger team uncovered a significant drugs conspiracy.

Ryan Banham (27/12/1988), of Digby Road, Rochdale, received his sentence at Manchester Crown Court yesterday (7 May 2026) after earlier pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of cocaine, concerned in the supply of cannabis, possess with intent to supply cannabis and producing cannabis.

Officers from Rochdale’s Challenger Organised Crime Unit began an investigation into Banham’s involvement in the supply of drugs last year, with initial financial enquiries revealing hundreds of thousands of pounds being deposited into his personal bank account, with concerns regarding the source of those funds.

On 6 June 2025, officers executed a warrant at Banham’s home address, where substantial quantities of cannabis and cocaine were recovered. Multiple mobile phones were additionally seized for further examination.

Banham was subsequently arrested and later released on bail. Enquiries soon revealed extensive evidence of drug trafficking activity, including the supply of cannabis, payment discussions, and drug orders.

He was again arrested in December for drugs offences and a further search revealed more two kilograms of cannabis, cocaine and other drug paraphernalia.

One video recovered during the course of the investigation revealed Banham singing to the camera while preparing drugs in a cannabis farm.

The result comes following a comprehensive investigation by the Rochdale Challenger team, who tackle serious criminality across the district every single day.

Detective Inspector Dan Daly from our Rochdale district said: “Banham was responsible for distributing dangerous and illicit drugs throughout the Rochdale community and beyond.

“Following an investigation into his criminal dealings, we were able to secure a charge which has led to this result, and ensured a significant disruption to the supply of illegal substances.

“Across Rochdale, our officers are constantly working to tackle drugs supply and will act on any intelligence provided – which you can do directly or anonymously through Crimestoppers.”