Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Organised Crime Branch have made 16 arrests as part of an investigation into suspected drug cultivation and associated criminal activity.
A total of nine cannabis factories were uncovered during proactive searches in the counties of Armagh, Tyrone and Fermanagh over the last two days, 23 and 24 June.
With the support of Local Policing and Operational Support officers, cannabis plants with an estimated street value of approximately £1.1 million have been seized.
Detective Sergeant Elliott, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Organised Crime Branch, said: “Nine grow houses were located across a number of towns and villages within Counties Armagh, Tyrone and Fermanagh – namely Armagh, Newtownhamilton, Keady, Killylea, Coalisland, Aughnacloy, Omagh, and Clabby.
“During the searches, cannabis plants with a collective estimated street value of approximately £1.1 million were seized.”
The detective added: “We have 16 arrests in total. Fourteen men were arrested on suspicion of drug-related offences as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected cannabis cultivation and associated criminality, with two further men arrested on suspicion of possessing counterfeit currency.
“Thirteen of those arrested remain in custody at this time, while two have been released on bail and one released unconditionally.”
The detective continued: “The majority of the properties were in rural locations, with many of the structures significant in size and sophistication. This would inevitably involve considerable planning, investment, and time – in terms of both establishment and maintenance.”
Detective Sergeant Elliott added: “Illegal grow operations, of such complexity, are without doubt generating profits for criminal networks.
“Organised crime groups who exploit others, in this case through the supply of drugs, have one aim only and that’s to line their own pockets. Sadly, this often comes at the expense of vulnerable people.
“The investigation is extremely significant in terms of the number of constructions identified, the subsequent number of arrests and the volume of seizures. By identifying and shutting down the grow houses, and by making arrests, we’re helping to stop criminality in its tracks. Our investigation will, however, continue beyond today’s arrests.
“We, as a police service, will continue to identify and investigate those who make their living from crime, and we remain grateful for your support. I’m keen to take this opportunity to encourage anyone with information, or indeed concerns, to contact us on 101.”
A report can also be made to police online at www.psni.police.uk/report
Alternatively, information can be given, with total anonymity, to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org