A 37-year-old man has been sentenced at Laganside Crown Court today, Thursday, 4th December 2025, after a proactive search of his vehicle led to the discovery of a significant quantity of cannabis.

Mariyan Tsvyatkov, pled guilty to possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply at an earlier hearing, and was today sentenced to 24 months imprisonment.

Detective Inspector Pyper from Organised Crime Branch said: "Police stopped a vehicle after it disembarked a ferry at the port in Belfast on 22nd November 2024. The defendant was the driver and sole occupant of the car.

"When the vehicle was searched, approximately 11kg of cannabis was located in sophisticated hide within the vehicle.

“This sentencing demonstrates our ongoing commitment to bringing those involved in organised crime to justice. Working alongside our partners, we will continue to disrupt the activities of organised crime groups, who bring nothing but harm to the most vulnerable within our communities.

"Information from the public is crucial in helping us tackle the scourge of drugs and removing those who supply drugs from our streets."

Information can be given directly to police by calling 101 or online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. Alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org