Man arrested after drugs worth over £200,000 found in east Belfast

A 23-year old man has been arrested by police who've seized herbal cannabis worth over £200,000.

It follows the search of a house in the Albertbridge Road area of east Belfast on Wednesday morning.

A PSNI spokesperson says the operation is part of an ongoing probe into suspected drugs criminality linked to the east Belfast UVF.

“During the search officers seized a large quantity of suspected herbal cannabis with an estimated street value of £204,000.

“A sum of money was also recovered and a number of other items including drug-related paraphernalia.

“The man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class B controlled drug, possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply and possession of criminal property.

“He was also further arrested by officers on suspicion of possession of a Class B controlled drug following the recovery of a quantity of herbal cannabis in the Dundonald area in September 2022.

“The man remains in police custody at this time, assisting detectives with their enquiries.

“This search and arrest is demonstration of our commitment to tackle all types of organised criminality linked to paramilitaries.

“I would encourage anyone with information, or concerns, to contact us on 101. Information can also be provided, anonymously, to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”