Three Men Arrested In Proactive Operation In Newtownards

Three men has been arrested as part of a proactive policing operation in Newtownards.

The men, aged 21, 24 and 25, were arrested on suspicion of various related drugs offences after a police stopped and searched in the Castlebawn Drive area. A large quantity of suspected herbal cannabis with an estimated street value of around £4,000 and around £2,000 in cash were recovered from the vehicle.

Subsequent searches were carried out at an address in the Newtownards area and two residential premises in the Newtownabbey area. A number of items were recovered including a suspected firearm and suspected firearm components, a large number of counterfeit goods and weapons seized which have been taken away for further forensic examinations. A quantity of suspected Class A, Class B and Class C controlled drugs and other drugs paraphernalia were also seized.

Chief Inspector McGrattan said: "This proactive policing operation involving officers across local policing districts and detectives from our criminal investigation department provides another example of our robust approach in taking drugs off our streets. We are committed to tackling the scourge of drugs in our communities and we will continue to proactively investigate and carry out searches linked to the drugs trade.

"The very simple reality is that the sale, supply and consumption of these incredibly harmful drugs is doing nothing but ruining lives. We are determined to disrupt their activity and anyone involved in the drugs trade.

"I again repeat our appeal to anyone who can help us identify suspects or provide any information about suspected drug dealing in their area to call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, information can also be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111."