Police say large quantity of drugs taken off the streets after day of action

Police say officers targeted areas which are known to be frequented by drug users
Author: Chris BrennanPublished 1st Mar 2024

Police have made three arrests following a number of searches on a day of action against the supply of illegal drugs, which included a find worth around £150,000.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "On Thursday 29th February, officers from teams across the Police Service of Northern Ireland worked together to conduct multiple searches in the area.

“This was the third such targeted day of action since September 2023 and was an opportunity for us to focus on one of our district priorities – to tackle the illegal supply of controlled drugs.

“Our officers targeted areas which are known to be frequented by drug users and attended public transport hubs with the clear intent to detect and disrupt drugs suppliers.

“During the operation, there were eleven houses searched in the Portadown, Armagh, Banbridge and Lurgan areas, leading to the seizure of quantities of Class A, B and C controlled drugs, a number of mobile phones, fireworks, cash and drugs-related paraphernalia."

The spokesperson continued: "We also intercepted a postal delivery containing an estimated £150,000 worth of suspected cannabis. All items have been sent for forensic examination.

"A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A and B controlled substances with intent to supply, possession of Class A and B controlled substances and possession of fireworks and has since been released on bail to allow for further enquiries.

"We also arrested a 36-year-old man and a 41-year-old woman on suspicion of possession of Class B and C controlled substances with intent to supply and possession of criminal property. They have been bailed to allow for further enquiries.

"Additionally, the stop and search of a vehicle led to the seizure of a small amount of suspected Class C controlled drugs. Our investigation into this seizure is ongoing."