DETECTIVES from the PSNI’s Reactive and Organised Crime Branch have charged four men over a cocaine dealing racket.

The men were arrested in Newtownards yesterday, Wednesday, October 14.

All four men are due to appear at Newtownards Magistrates’ Court this morning, Thursday, October 15.

A fifth man was arrested later on Wednesday and has also been charged to appear at the same court this morning on drugs and prohibited weapons charges.

The arrests came just 24 hours after the UVF, UDA and Red Hand Commando announced that they “eschewed criminality”.

Six properties were searched as part of the investigation into the supply of cocaine in Newtownards.

A number of items including suspected cannabis and rounds of ammunition were removed for further detailed examination.

Three of the suspects, aged 25, 27 and 31, were taken to Bangor police station for questioning.

A fourth suspect, aged 31, was taken to Musgrave PSNI station in Belfast for interview.

The officer leading the investigation, Detective Inspector Harry Colgan from Reactive and Organised Crime Branch, said: “This investigation has been running for several months.

“It has focused on the sale and supply of cocaine in and around a number of premises in Newtownards.

“Our inquiries have also established links to a loyalist paramilitary group.

“Police are determined to remove dangerous and illegal drugs from our communities.

“We will deploy the full range of resources and tactics at our disposal so that we can bring offenders before the courts and keep people safe.

“We are committed to working with communities to combat the threat posed by illegal drugs, regardless of the source of those threats.”