£1.8 million of drugs found in lorry at Belfast Harbour

Two people have been arrested

PSNI image, Belfast Harbour drugs seized
Author: Chloe StjohnPublished 12th Feb 2022

Around £1.8 million worth of drugs has been seized after a lorry was stopped and searched at Belfast Harbour.

The vehicle - which was carrying cocaine and cannabis - was intercepted by police in the early hours of this morning.

A man and woman in their 30's have been arrested on suspicion of drugs offences.

A statement from the PSNI said, “Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Organised Crime Unit conducted an operation in the Belfast Harbour area in the early hours of this morning (Saturday, 12th February).”

“A lorry was stopped and searched with approximately £1.8 million worth of cocaine and cannabis seized. Two arrests were made - a man aged 36 and a woman aged 31 - on suspicion of possession of Class A and B controlled drugs and possession with intent to supply. Both remain in police custody at this time.”

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Thornton said: “This search, seizure and arrest was conducted as part of the multi-agency approach to target organised crime and our ongoing commitment to address the criminality linked to drug importation, supply and use that often results in drug debts, drug addiction and drug-related deaths within our communities.

“Through Operation DEALBREAKER, and the multi-agency efforts of the Organised Crime Task Force, we will continue to carry out operations, to break the cycle of those who seek to cause harm through the illegal importation and supply of drugs in Northern Ireland, and to dismantle the organised criminals who profit from this incredibly harmful activity.

“I appeal to anyone with information about illegal drug use or supply, to call police on the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ . The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/