Five Arrested Following Searches Into Organised Crime

Five people have been arrested following major police searches in connection into organised crime across Northern Ireland.

More than 400 police officers were involved in the operation which took place on 20 and 21 June in L'Derry, Strabane, Belfast, Glenavy, Aughgnacloy and Dungannon.

A number of items were seized including suspected Class A and B controlled drugs, approximately £200,000 of high value luxury items, including various makes of watches, a large diamond and other jewellery, over £9,000 of cash, luxury motor vehicles, an electro-shock device and a large quantity of financial documents, as well as credit cards, mobile phones and computers.

Detective Chief Superintendent Tim Mairs, Head of the PSNI's Reactive and Organised Crime Branch, said: "This was an extensive search and arrest operation into the suspected supply of large quantities of Class A and B controlled drugs namely cocaine and herbal cannabis into and throughout Northern Ireland.

"It also focussed on suspected large scale money laundering. The operation, which involved working closely with our colleagues in An Garda Siochana, demonstrates PSNI's commitment to tackling those involved in organised crime and drugs supply in Northern Ireland.

"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.

"This operation demonstrates that that PSNI is effective in removing drugs from our streets and also arresting those believed to be involved in the supply trade who have no regard for the people in their own communities, but instead are fuelled by a desire to make money from others' addictions."

(CD/JP)