£100k of illegal drugs found in Newtownards business

£100,000 of illegal drugs has been found in a business in Newtownards.

The discovery was part of an operation targeting drugs criminality believed to be linked to the South East Antrim UDA.

A large quantity of suspected cocaine and herbal cannabis was found.

A man in his 40s was arrested on a number of offences including possession of Class A and B drugs with intent to supply.

He has since been released on bail.

Detective Inspector Lynne Knox from PCTF said: “Following a proactive policing operation targeting drugs criminality believed to be linked to the South East Antrim UDA, officers carried out a number of searches resulting in the seizure of a large quantity of suspected herbal cannabis and cocaine.

"A quantity of mixing agent was also seized and if mixed with cocaine, the overall seizure has a potential street value of £100,000.

“One man aged in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A and Class B drugs and Possession of Class A and Class B drugs with intent to supply. The man was also arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the production and supply of Class A drugs. He was released on police bail pending further enquiries.

“The harm caused by drug misuse impacts on people's lives at every level in Northern Ireland. It includes crime committed to fuel drug dependence; organised criminality, the violence and exploitation that goes hand in hand with production and supply; paramilitary style attacks and the irreparable damage and loss to the families and individuals whose lives it destroys. This seizure demonstrates our ongoing commitment to removing drugs from our communities and the harm they cause.

“We are committed to tackling the issue of drugs and I would appeal to the public to speak to us if they have any concerns or information regarding drugs in their communities. I would ask anyone who is aware of any individual involved in the supply of drugs to contact their local police on 101.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."