Man (20s) arrested in Magherafelt following seizure of suspected cannabis plants

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Organised Crime Branch, assisted by colleagues from Operational Support Department, have arrested a man and seized suspected cannabis plants with a potential street value of £320,000, in Magherafelt and Bangor.

The plants were located following searches of properties.

A man aged in his 20s was arrested in the Magherafelt area on suspicion of cultivating cannabis and dishonestly extracting electricity. 

He is currently in police custody, being interviewed by detectives.

Detective Inspector Kelly from the Police Service’s Organised Crime Branch said: “Drug suppliers exploit people to prop up their own lifestyle. They have scant regard for those people impacted by their criminality and are only motivated by money.

“As a Service we are continually conducting investigations to detect and prevent drug related criminality.

“I would encourage anyone who has any information about the use or supply of illegal drugs to contact police on the non-emergency number 101 with any information they have. 

"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.

“I would also urge people renting out properties to conduct regular checks to deter criminals from conducting this criminality and report any suspicions to Police.”