05/05/2023

Paramilitary Crime Task Force Search Three Houses In Shankill

A major search operation has been carried out in the Shankill area of Belfast this morning, Friday 05 May, by the PSNI's Paramilitary Crime Task Force.

Three properties in the area were targeted by the searches as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected criminality linked to the west Belfast UDA.

A 37-year-old man was arrested at a property on suspicion of possession of a Class B controlled drug, possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply and possessing criminal property.

He remains in custody at this time, assisting officers with their enquiries.

Detective Inspector Corrigan said: "As a result of the searches, a number of items including a quantity of suspected Class B controlled drugs, a sum of money, a mobile phone and other drug-related paraphernalia were seized.

"The items will be taken away for further forensic examination.

"Our enquiries remain ongoing following this morning’s arrest and seizure. This is a demonstration of the PCTF’s commitment to tackle all types of criminality linked to paramilitaries, in an ongoing effort to rid our communities of the harm these groups cause and of their coercive control.

"We would like to thank the local community for their continued support and will continue to act on the information you provide us.

"I would encourage anyone with information about the supply or use of illegal drugs to contact police on 101."

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/.

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