Northern Ireland

Paramilitary taskforce arrest man in UVF linked probe

A man has been arrested in east Belfast after drugs find.
A man has been arrested in east Belfast after drugs find.

A 36-year-old man has been arrested following a search in east Belfast, believed to be connected to UVF criminality.

Officers from the Paramilitary Crime Task (PCTF) searched a house in the Braniel area of Belfast today.

A substantial amount of suspected cocaine, a high value watch and a vehicle were seized.

The suspect was arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class A drug, possession of a Class A Drug with Intent to Supply and possession of Criminal Property.

Detective Inspector Hamilton said: “This is the third search in an ongoing operation to tackle the harm caused by drug dealers linked to East Belfast UVF this week.

"These drug criminals, who hide behind the badge of paramilitaries are a scourge on society. They prey on vulnerable members of our community to line their own pockets, leaving a trail of misery in their wake.

“Information from members of the community is key to enabling us to gather an accurate picture of what is happening in our local communities. We are committed to making Northern Ireland a hostile environment to those engaged in drug dealing. I would reassure the public that we will continue to listen to the community and act on information they provide", Mr Hamilton added.