Police from the PSNI Paramilitary Crime Task Force conducted searches at three properties in the Old Park area of north Belfast on Tuesday, 10th March. The operation formed part of an investigation into criminality linked to the west Belfast UDA.

Officers seized quantities of suspected Class A and Class B controlled drugs, suspected Class B edibles, drugs-related paraphernalia, tobacco and cash. All items were removed for forensic examination.

A 34-year-old man was arrested at one property on suspicion of possession of a Class B controlled drug and possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply.

A 39-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman faced arrest on suspicion of possession of a Class B controlled drug, possession of a Class B controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of a Class A controlled drug and possession of a Class A controlled drug with intent to supply. They also faced suspicion of possessing criminal property and evading goods, excise duty and VAT.

All three suspects, two men and a woman in their 30s, remain in custody. Detective Sergeant Gourley stated that the searches and arrests show the task force's efforts against illegal drug use and supply in communities.

Enquiries continue. Police asked for information on drug supply or use via 101, the PSNI online reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/report or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org.