Police seize estimated £10 million of suspected Class A drugs

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has seized an estimated £10 million of suspected Class A drugs.

Newry, Mourne & Down District Commander Superintendent Norman Haslett said: “Slieve Gullion Neighbourhood Policing Team officers, whilst on routine patrol in the Jonesborough area of South Armagh on Monday evening, 11th December had reason to stop a suspicious lorry.

“A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a large quantity of suspected cocaine concealed within boxes containing frozen meat products, worth an estimated street value of £10 million.

“A man, aged in his 30s, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of a number of driving-related offences.

“He has since been released on police bail to allow for further enquiries as the investigation continues.

 “This is the largest seizure of suspected cocaine in Northern Ireland by the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

“The sophistication of the concealment method and sheer quantity of the drugs gives an indication of the scale of criminality involved.

“I believe that this significant quantity of drugs would have been distributed and sold in local communities across Northern Ireland bringing untold harm.

“Organised crime groups involved in this activity profit hugely from the sale of these harmful drugs and have no care for the destruction and harm they cause to people’s lives.

“This is an example of effective community based Neighbourhood policing at its best. As District Commander I am incredibly proud of my team who have removed a very significant amount of illegal and harmful drugs from our streets.”

Organised Crime Branch has now commenced a robust investigation. Detective Chief Superintendent Andy Hill said. “The investigation is at an early stage and we making a specific appeal to anyone who noticed a maroon-coloured Iveco Eurocargo lorry with the registration number LK08 LHO travelling within the South Armagh area, particularly in the wider Jonesborough and Keady areas to make contact with police.