Magdalena Sadlo, nicknamed “Barbie” by a Middle Eastern–based drug cartel, has been sentenced to 14 years in jail for her role as financial director in the organization.

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June 18, 2025 | Dispatch | Power and Security

The sentencing on June 14 comes as a result of Sadlo’s prior arrest on February 13, 2024, at Heathrow Airport after flying first class from Dubai. In custody, detectives uncovered ample evidence connecting Sadlo to the cartel, including expensive jewelry and a CV detailing her distinguished role in the organization.

Sadlo, 30, is of Polish background, having gained global recognition as a contestant on Love Island Poland in 2021. After gaining stardom, Sadlo pursued a career in hospitality in Dubai.

She was recruited by the Middle Eastern–based drug cartel to assume the role of “business brain,” managing finances and logistics for the drug trafficking organization (DTO).

She was due to be sentenced in April 2025 but claimed to have only assumed the role of a low-wage personal assistant, which temporarily halted proceedings. Regardless, Carlisle Crown Court found her guilty of the following charges:

• Conspiracy to supply Class A drugs (cocaine) 
• Conspiracy to supply Class B drugs (cannabis and ketamine) 
• Conspiracy to conceal, disguise, convert, transfer, or remove criminal property (i.e., money laundering)

Judge Nicholas Barker, the Circuit Judge presiding over the proceedings, heard Sadlo’s lawyer argue that her actions were the result of a prior drug addiction and financial hardship.

Nevertheless, Barker sentenced Sadlo to 14 years, stating that she must have been “central” to the operation and telling her directly, “I conclude there was gain and reward, and in some way considerable to you.”

Detectives concluded that the operation would not have been so successful without Sadlo leading the accounting and transportation logistics. It is reported that she aided in the trafficking of over 300 kg of cocaine into the UK, including 33 kg to Greater Manchester alone.

Additionally, Sadlo assisted in the distribution of other drugs, such as Class B drugs listed previously (cannabis and ketamine), and in laundering money derived from drug trafficking.

The operation was executed by Sadlo and her associates by keeping the drugs in safe houses across the UK and directly distributing them to consumers via drivers. 

The DTO that Sadlo was working for has not yet been identified. However, this verdict holds implications for what really happens beneath the surface.

Cartels, DTOs, and criminal organizations exist everywhere, and have roots so far-reaching that they often evade the public eye. 

These organizations—from Latin America to the Middle East and beyond—target individuals vulnerable to the “risk with reward” appeal, often ensnaring even the elite and privileged.