A 52-year-old man from west Belfast received a two-month custodial sentence, suspended for three years, on Wednesday 18 March. Ian Cotter faced charges on four counts of offering to supply Class C controlled drugs.

The offences came to light in May 2024 during a Police Service of Northern Ireland investigation into drugs criminality connected to the New IRA. The Serious Crime Branch handled the probe.

Detective Chief Inspector McCallum from the PSNI Serious Crime Branch stated that the force recognises the harm illegal drugs cause to communities. He added that the PSNI remains committed to addressing serious crime in the area.

McCallum urged the public to share information with police via the non-emergency number 101 or an online form. He also mentioned Crimestoppers for anonymous tips on 0800 555 111 or online.