Cannabis farm found in Crossmaglen

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A man has been charged and another man remains in custody following the discovery of a cannabis farm with approximately 100 plants in the Lismore area of Crossmaglen on Friday, 30 January.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Reynolds said officers on mobile patrol observed a man throw away a hand-rolled cigarette as he saw them approach. A strong smell of cannabis was noted and, after the cigarette was retrieved, he was arrested on suspicion of possession of class B controlled drugs.

Inspector Reynolds said: "On attendance at his address, a strong smell of cannabis was again noted. When officers searched the property, they discovered approximately 100 cannabis plants in the upstairs rooms. The man, aged 27, and a second man present at the address, aged 28, were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class B controlled drugs, cultivating cannabis and possession of class B controlled drugs with intent to supply."

The inspector added: "A substantial quantity of drugs has now been prevented from reaching our streets and what appears to be a well-organised operation has been dismantled. Targeting drugs supply is a priority for the Police Service of Northern Ireland and our officers are always on the lookout for any potential criminal activity."

Newry and Armagh MLA Aoife Finnegan has welcomed confirmation that police have located and shut down a cannabis production operation in the Lismore area of Crossmaglen.

“This kind of criminal activity has absolutely no place in our communities. It is unacceptable and puts local people at risk.

Ms Finnegan concluded: “I want to commend the police for their swift and effective work in identifying and closing down this illegal operation. Keeping our communities safe must always be the priority.”

The investigation into the discovery is ongoing and Inspector Reynolds has asked anyone who has any information which could be of assistance to contact the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 657 30/01/25.

Alternatively, information can also 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.