Three Charged After Donaghadee Cannabis Farm Discovery

Three men have been charged following the discovery of a sophisticated cannabis cultivation operation in Donaghadee, County Down.

The illicit drugs operation was uncovered by police on Friday afternoon, 4th April, at a property in the Donaghadee area. 

Detective Inspector McAnee stated: "The illicit drugs operation was uncovered on Friday afternoon, 4th April after police attended a property in the area. Three men who were inside the premises fled from the scene by car. A short time later officers successfully located and stopped the vehicle on the Antrim Road in Belfast. The three men were detained and a search of the vehicle uncovered a large quantity of suspected herbal cannabis."

Initially, three men, two aged 35 and one aged 41, were arrested on suspicion of drugs-related offences, including cannabis cultivation. They were held in police custody while investigations continued. Following further investigation, two of the 35-year-old men have been charged with two counts of cultivating cannabis, three counts of possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply, three counts of possession of a Class B controlled drug, and two counts of dishonestly using electricity.

The 40-year-old man has been charged with the same drug-related offences, as well as additional driving offences, including having no driving licence and using a motor vehicle without insurance.

All three men appeared before Downpatrick Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 7th April.

Detective Inspector McAnee emphasised the police's commitment to tackling drug-related crime, saying, "We will continue to be relentless in our commitment to tackle the illegal supply of drugs and pursue those who profit from the consequent misery and harm. We encourage anyone who may have information about drug related activity in their community to contact us. Any information, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, could help make a big difference in tackling this type of organised crime and the harm it causes."

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. As is usual procedure, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.