Man Jailed In Connection With 'Significant' Heroin Seizure

The PSNI have welcomed the sentencing of a 42-year-old man at Belfast Crown Court in connection with serious drug-related offences committed in June and July 2022.

Omar Ahamad was sentenced to two years and six months – half of this term to be served in custody and half on licence – on drugs offences, including importing a controlled drug, and possession of a class A controlled drug with intent to supply.

In a PSNU Organised Crime Branch operation in June 2022, a number of properties in south and west Belfast were searched and a "significant" amount of heroin was seized, alongside drug paraphernalia and a quantity of herbal cannabis.

Omar Ahamad was subsequently arrested by detectives at Belfast International Airport on 18 July 2022, as he attempted to board a one-way flight to Paris.

Organised Crime Branch Detective Inspector Kelly said: "A significant amount of highly addictive drugs was, thankfully, removed from the streets of Belfast. To give an idea of the impact, these drugs once divided up could have produced approximately 6,000 street deals. Heroin has a profound physical and mental effect on vulnerable individuals and causes untold pain to their families. It has been a factor in multiple deaths in recent years and, had these drugs made their way onto the streets, this could have led to further loss of life or serious medical implications for users.

"I believe our investigation, and today's result, will help to disrupt the supply of dangerous drugs on our streets and the lining of criminals' pockets.

"Through Operation Dealbreaker we remain committed to tackling the supply of illegal drugs. If anyone has any information about suspected drug dealing in their area please call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively information can be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111."

Anyone who thinks they might have a problem with alcohol and/or drugs and would like to get help can visit www.drugsandalcoholni.info. This also includes details of services available for individuals affected by someone else's drinking and/or drug misuse.