25/10/2023

Operation Targets Visitors Smuggling Items Into Maghaberry Prison

The PSNI and the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) have conducted an operation into visitors smuggling illegal items into Maghaberry Prison.

The operation was conducted on Wednesday, 18 October, by officers from the District Support Team, Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team and Local Policing Team, in conjunction with NIPS.

Following the operation, District Commander for Lisburn and Castlereagh, Superintendent Kelly Moore said: "Whilst I can report that nothing untoward was found during the planned operation, I'm also keen to assure the public that we remain totally committed to tackling the illegal movement and supply of drugs, particularly into prison facilities during visiting hours. We are also very committed to working alongside our partners and taking a joint approach to tackling serious and organised crime across the district.

"Drugs have no place in our society and, through Operation Dealbreaker, we will continue to tackle the supply, use and harm caused by illegal drugs. This operation is an example of how collaborative working can disrupt crime whilst also demonstrating our commitment to keeping people safe by removing harmful drugs from local communities and inside our prisons."

Governor of Maghaberry Prison, David Savage said: "This operation is the latest in a long history of partnership working between the Northern Ireland Prison Service and the Police Service of Northern Ireland. It shows our determination to tackle the dangers of smuggling contraband into prison and to prosecute those who try to do so. We will continue to work together to protect the community and to ensure that a safe, secure and stable prison is maintained."

If you have information or concerns about the illegal supply of drugs, please contact us on our non-emergency number 101.


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