At a hearing at Belfast Magistrate’s Court yesterday, Wednesday 7th June, a forfeiture of £39,315 was awarded in favour of the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

The case was linked to the ongoing Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF) investigation into the suspected drugs-related criminality of the East Belfast UVF.

Detective Sergeant Pyper / Thompson from the PCTF said: “This forfeiture highlights the PCTF’s ongoing commitment to pursuing proceeds of crime generated from the criminal activities of paramilitary groupings, sending a clear message that crime doesn’t pay.

“This forfeiture has been made possible with the support of the local community. I would appeal to the public to continue to provide information on those they suspect to be living a criminally-funded lifestyle so we can investigate. We will deprive criminals of their cash and use it for a better purpose.”