POLICE have arrested a 41 year old male on suspicion of possession of cannabis and cultivating cannabis.

It follows the seizure of a substantial quantity of drugs following a planned search of a property in Rathfriland, Co Down.

Suspected herbal cannabis to the estimated value of £500,000 and other drugs paraphernalia were recovered from a property in the Newry Street area.

Commenting on the seizure Inspector Leslie Badger, from Dromore and Rathfriland Neighbourhood policing team said: “This significant seizure further reinforces our determination to remove controlled drugs from the streets of Northern Ireland.

“The potential harm to the public caused by drugs is an issue that the PSNI take seriously.

“We will continue to work in conjunction with partner agencies to ensure the closure of all supply routes and to bring to justice those involved in trafficking drugs at all levels.

“If you see or know anyone who is dealing drugs in your local area then contact your local police on the new non emergency number 101 or alternatively you can contact the independent charity crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”