A man and a woman have been arrested after police carried out searches across Ballymena on 4 June, seizing suspected drugs, large amounts of cash and counterfeit cosmetics.

Officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland searched four properties, one business premises and three vehicles in a coordinated operation targeting the local drugs trade.

Items recovered included substances believed to be Class A and Class B drugs, what police described as criminal property, cash, electronic devices, fireworks and suspected fake cosmetic products.

A 68-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing criminal property and has been bailed pending further enquiries. A 41-year-old woman was held on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs and possessing them with intent to supply; she remains in custody.

All seized items will now undergo forensic examination, police said.

Sergeant Armour of Ballymena District Support Team said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to disrupt organised crime and tackle the supply of drugs. He stressed the importance of public information in identifying those involved.

The PSNI urged anyone with information about drug-related activity to contact them on 101 or online. Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers.