OFFICERS from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force, investigating criminality linked to East Belfast UVF have arrested two men and seized a large quantity of suspected class A controlled drugs with an estimated value of £180,000 yesterday afternoon, Wednesday, November 24.

During the proactive policing operation a search of a property was carried out in the Ballybeen area of Dundonald during which a substantial quantity of suspected Class A drugs was found.

Officers stopped a vehicle on the M1 near Moira and conducted a further search, with another significant quantity of suspected Class A drugs recovered.

Two men aged 28 and 41 were arrested on suspicion of a number of drug related offences and are currently in custody.

Detective Sergeant Thompson said: “Paramilitary organisations who bring drugs into our communities don’t care about the inevitable pain and heartache they bring to individuals and their loved ones.

“Whilst they claim to protect the communities they coercively control, in reality their only concern is financial gain, with no thought for the lives that get destroyed along the way.

“Today’s operation continues to show that the Paramilitary Crime Task Force will relentlessly pursue Paramilitary Crime Gangs who are wholly intent in destroying their own communities.

“With the continued help and support of the public, we are committed to removing drugs from our streets and putting those responsible before the courts. 

“I would appeal to anyone with information, or concerns, about the use or supply of illegal drugs or paramilitary crime in their area to contact us on 101.”   

Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.