05/07/2022

Six Arrested In South Armagh Drugs Operation

Six people have been arrested in connection with the seizure of drugs, firearms and cash during a series of searches of vehicles and addresses in South Armagh and Markethill on Sunday 3rd July.

On the afternoon of Sunday, at around 13:30, a police helicopter reported observing a suspicious vehicle, a white BMW X5, in the Newry area and followed it to Camlough where officers on the ground were tasked to intercept it.

At Camlough, the occupants of the BMW are alleged to have carried out a suspected drug deal with the driver of a blue Renault Megane before both vehicles left the area. The Megane made its way to an address in Bessbrook and the BMW drove towards Markethill. Both vehicles were subsequently intercepted with the occupants of the cars arrested.

Commander for Newry, Mourne & Down, Superintendent Norman Haslett continued: "Searches were conducted at a number of locations, including the house in Bessbrook, with further arrests being made there. Suspected diazepam, cannabis and ecstasy were recovered along with £100,000 in cash, suspected firearms and quantities of tobacco and cigarettes.

"Two women aged 31 and 59, and four men aged 28, 30, 41 and 45 currently remain in custody assisting officers with their enquiries.

"This is a great example of proactive policing involving our Air Support Unit, District officers and Tactical Support officers and shows our continued determination to target the supply and use of illegal drugs. If you have information which can assist us please call police on 101 or submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/."


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