Five arrested in organised crime crackdown

Five arrests have been made after a major police investigation involving two days of searches.

Drugs
Published 21st Jun 2017
Last updated 21st Jun 2017

More than 400 officers were involved in the operation, that saw 20 properties searched across the province.

Searches took place in Londonderry, Strabane, Belfast, Glenavy, Aughgnacloy and Dungannon.

Class A and B controlled drugs were seized, along with a number of other items including around £200,000 of high value luxury items such as Rolex watches, cash and cars.

The PSNI said it was part of a crackdown on supply of herbal cannabis and cocaine in Northern Ireland, as well as large scale money laundering.

Detective Chief Superintendent Tim Mairs, Head of the PSNI’s Reactive and Organised Crime Branch, appealed for anyone with information to contact police.

“Police will continue to take robust action against those believed to be involved in organised criminal activity, particularly those involved in the supply of drugs, as well as street level drug dealers.

"Drugs are a concern for communities and this operation demonstrates our commitment to deal with the issue.

"I would encourage communities to work with the police in investigating and bringing people before the courts.

Superintendent Mairs added: “I would like to take this opportunity to reinforce the dangers posed by taking any illegal drug or any medication which is not prescribed for you.

"Misuse of drugs can affect anyone and we recognise that many vulnerable people are being exploited for the financial gain of those higher up the supply chain.

“Information from the community is vital and I would urge anyone who knows anything about the supply of drugs to contact police on 101."