Police believe they seized “one of Northern Ireland’s largest ever hauls of herbal cannabis” yesterday afternoon (Friday).
Five people – three men and two women – were arrested after PSNI officers intercepted the multi-million pound shipment, following a joint operation with Irish customs officials.
The drugs were found in an industrial sized fuel tank on a shipping pallet at a property in Dromore, Co Down.
Police also carried out a number of follow up searches and inquiries at other locations.
PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Martin said the seizure demonstrated “the effectiveness of real-time intelligence sharing and cross-border collaboration”.
“With the assistance of our colleagues in An Garda Síochána and Revenue Commissioners we have undoubtedly prevented the significant harm that would have resulted from this huge consignment of drugs reaching the streets of both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland today,” he added.
Garda Assistant Commissioner Barry O’Brien said the operation showed “the practical application of the Cross Border Joint Agency Task Force”.
HJe added: “I wish to commend all agencies involved in both jurisdictions which resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of controlled drugs.”
Commenting on reports that police have made a multi- million pound cannabis seizure outside Dromore, Sinn Féin councillor Kevin Savage said: “This significant seizure of drugs means that lives have been saved.
“It is essential that the PSNI is effective in removing drugs from our streets and also arresting those believed to be involved in the supply trade.
“These people have no regard for the people in their own communities, but instead are fuelled by a selfish desire to make money from others’ addiction.
“I urge the Police to continue to pursue those who engage in the world of illicit drugs, and ensure they face the full rigours of the law.”
