PSNI show off evidence of £1.34 million drugs breakthrough thanks to Operation Dealbreaker

The figure was revealed as police gave an update on Operation Dealbreaker – a co-ordinated approach to address drug misuse across the Province, which was launched in July.

Detective Superintendent Zoe McKee said: “At the launch, I said that we would continue to do all we could to prevent and detect as much drug related activity as possible – be that importation, supply, possession, or financial gain resulting from drug related criminality – and proactively work to break criminal drug dealing networks to prevent harm to local communities.”

She said the PSNI also worked along with Border Force colleagues to intercept packages containing suspected drugs sent through the postal system.

DS McKee continued: “From September 17 to October 4 this year alone, we have removed £1.34 million worth of suspected drugs from the streets and communities right across Northern Ireland; we have conducted 94 searches; seized 317 drugs exhibits, made 129 arrests and charged 55 people for drug related offences. “

She commented: “The devastation experienced as a result of drug misuse is cross cutting and impacts people’s lives at every level in Northern Ireland. The activities of these individuals and crime gangs is a demonstration of harm at its highest. They are only interested in control, money and lifestyle and will often prey on those who most need and deserve our help.

“As a police service, through Operation Dealbreaker, we will continue to take a co-ordinated, consistent and multi-agency approach, supported by partners within the Organised Crime Task Force to break the supply and demand chain.

“I believe the public hold the ace card. I believe there are people who have information about who the drug-dealing criminals are. I believe local people know the harm they are causing within local communities.”

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