Police have seized drugs worth approximately £645,000 over four weeks at Belfast International Airport in an operation targeting organised crime groups.
Detectives from the PSNI’s Organised Crime Branch along with the Organised Crime Task Force have charged four people with drug importation and supply offences.
The seizures by police were destined for Northern Ireland while others were destined for the Republic of Ireland.
Detective Inspector Kelly said criminals are “increasingly” changing their methods to bring drugs in the country.
“Increasingly, we see criminal groups vary the methods they use in an attempt to bring drugs into this country,” Detective Inspector Kelly explained.
“Accordingly, we are constantly changing our tactics to deal with this threat and to keep our streets safe.
“My message to those responsible is: if you try to bring drugs in by whatever means, we will be waiting to take them from you.”
Detective Inspector added: “Some of the seizures were destined for Northern Ireland, while some, we believe, were destined for the Republic of Ireland market.
“Throughout the process, there will be exploitation of individuals, whether in the production, supply or consumption of drugs.
“People should be aware there is no such thing as harmless drugs. Someone, somewhere in the process, is likely to have suffered.”
He urged anyone with information on the subject to approach the police or contact Crimestoppers,
“We, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to actively target those responsible. We also, however, rely upon information from the public. With your help, we can focus our efforts on identifying those who make their living by bringing drugs into and onto our streets and neighbourhoods.”
News Catch Up – Thursday 12 December