It is believed to be “one of the biggest suspected cannabis operations in the North West in recent years”
Police say they have dismantled what is believed to be “one of the biggest suspected cannabis operations in the North West in recent years”.
It follows a planned search operation in the Strabane area, during which the PSNI say suspected cannabis plants with an estimated street value of £1.4 million were seized, with searches still ongoing.
A statement added: “Paraphernalia connected to drugs cultivation and supply has also been seized.
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“The operation on Wednesday, 2 July, was led by detectives from Organised Crime Branch who are investigating suspected drugs criminality linked to the INLA.
“District colleagues from Derry City and Strabane, alongside Tactical Support Group officers, Police dog handlers and Police Dogs were involved.”
Two arrests were made and both remain in custody at this time. Police say enquiries are ongoing.
Detective Inspector Pyper from Organised Crime Branch said: “We have dismantled a large, sophisticated suspected cannabis operation with row after row of suspected cannabis plants that filled two floors of the building.
“Our appeal is to anyone with information about suspected drugs-activity in your area, call us on the non-emergency number 101, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
You can also submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.
Derry City & Strabane Area Commander, Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney said: “Drugs cause misery in our communities, we have seen that far too often. We have also seen how large-scale drug operations are linked to organised crime gangs who will do anything to make money with no care for the harm they cause in our communities. This has been a significant operation and reflects the Police Service’s commitment to targeting drugs supply in Northern Ireland.”
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