Write a commentPolice in E District have uncovered a cannabis factory and seized a quantity of drugs as Operation Torus is launched across Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon and Newry and Mourne.
Operation Torus targets street level drug dealers and was launched to coincide with the province wide 'Drug dealers don't care, do you?' multi-agency campaign.
Over the coming weeks, police in E District will actively target those believed to be involved in the use or supply of drugs.
E District Crime Manager, Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Wright, said: "Tackling drugs has always been a priority for us in E District and Op Torus allows us to concentrate our resources and focus more interest on this area of crime.
"Op Torus was launched on Tuesday, 25 February, and already officers from E District's Tactical Crime Team have uncovered a cannabis factory in Portadown and seized a quantity of drugs in Kilkeel. This demonstrates exactly what we can do when the community works with us and brings information to us about criminal activity in their area.
"Over the coming weeks we will continue to disrupt and arrest drug dealers involved in the sale and supply of drugs and work to bring individuals before the courts. We are asking everyone for their support and co-operation in tackling this problem through the criminal justice system.
"It is also worth pointing out, that we are sensitive to community concerns around the use of so-called ‘legal highs’, particularly among young people. It is suspected that substances touted as 'legal highs' do contain dangerous substances which are harmful to human health. We are working with local communities, councils and health authorities to ensure that any substance which could pose a risk to the health of our young people is taken off the streets.
"To any young person or adult who is tempted to experiment with mind altering substance - legal or illegal - you can never be sure of exactly what you are taking or what side effects or long term damage it could cause. Don't put yourself in danger - stop and think abuot what one moment of recklessness might mean.
Our message today is clear and simple: if you see or know of anyone who is dealing drugs in your local area, then please contact us on 0845 600 8000 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and pass on any details that you may have."
Police in E District have recovered a quantity of drugs following searches in Kilkeel and Newry.
As part of Operation Torus, targeting street level drug dealing, officers conducted searches at a number of houses in Kilkeel and Newry.
Five grammes of herbal cannabis, three grammes of cannabis resin and four grammes of cocaine were seized along with paraphernalia linked to the distribution of drugs.
Enquiries are ongoing.
