Following an investigation by the Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF), two men have been sentenced at Belfast Crown Court today, Friday 5th January, for a number of drug-related offences.

James Spiers, aged 23 years, was convicted of possession of a class B controlled drug with intent to supply, namely cannabis. He was sentenced to a total of 20 months’ imprisonment with 10 months to be served in custody and 10 months on licence.

Michael Cousins, aged 26 years, was convicted of two counts of possession of a class B controlled drug, namely cannabis. He received an 18-month Probation Order.

Commenting, Detective Sergeant Crothers from the PCTF said: “On Saturday, 22nd January 2022, detectives carried out a search of a property in Clonduff Drive, east Belfast.

“Approximately 4kg of herbal cannabis was located, along with a quantity of cannabis-laced sweets.

“The removal of these drugs from our streets, along with today’s sentencing, offers reassurance that we, along with partner organisations, are committed to disrupting those involved with criminal and drug-related activity.

“This is a priority Police Service of Northern Ireland and we will continue to robustly and proactively pursue those who are intent on damaging our communities with their activities.

“I would encourage anyone with information that could assist in our ongoing efforts to contact us on the non-emergency number 101, or submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ ”

 You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/