A 42-year-old man was sentenced today, Monday 18th September, at Belfast Crown Court in relation to 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.
Detective Inspector Kelly from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Organised Crime Branch said: “Following an operation involving Organised Crime Task Force officers in June 2022, detectives searched properties in south and west Belfast. They recovered a significant amount of heroin with a potential street value of £146,000. This was alongside drug paraphernalia and a quantity of herbal cannabis.
“Mr Ahamad was arrested by detectives at Belfast International Airport on 18 July 2022, as he went to board a one-way flight to Paris.”
Detective Inspector Kelly continued: “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.