Police seize suspected drugs, cash and fake cosmetics in Ballymena raids as woman held in custody
- Love Ballymena
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Police have seized suspected Class A and Class B drugs, large sums of cash, fireworks and suspected fake cosmetic products following a major series of searches across Ballymena on Thursday.
Officers from Ballymena’s District Support Team, alongside other policing colleagues, carried out coordinated searches at four properties, one business premises and three vehicles as part of an ongoing operation targeting the local drugs trade.
A 41-year-old woman remains in police custody following the raids, while a 68-year-old man has been bailed pending further enquiries.
The operation, which unfolded across the Ballymena area on Thursday, June 4, also resulted in the seizure of suspected criminal property and electronic devices, all of which will now undergo forensic examination.
Drugs, cash and suspected fake products seized
Confirming details of the operation, Sergeant Armour said officers recovered a significant range of items during the searches.
He said:
“A number of items were seized including suspected Class A and Class B drugs, criminal property, large sums of cash, electronic devices, fireworks and suspected fake cosmetic products.
“Four properties were searched, as well as one business premises, and three vehicles. As a result of today’s searches, a 68-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possessing criminal property – he has since been bailed to allow for further enquiries.
“A 41-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A drugs and possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply.
“She remains in custody at this time as enquiries continue. All of the items recovered from today’s searches will now undergo forensic examination.”
The discovery of suspected fake cosmetic products alongside drugs and cash raises further concerns around the range of illegal goods circulating through local communities and businesses.
Police vow continued action against drugs trade
Police said the operation forms part of ongoing proactive efforts to disrupt organised criminality and target those profiting from illegal drugs in the Ballymena area.
Sergeant Armour added:
“We will continue to proactively investigate and carry out searches linked to the drugs trade to identify those involved.
“However, we also rely upon information from the public whose support is crucial in helping us to tackle the scourge of drugs. With the help of the public, we can focus our efforts on identifying those who make their living by bringing drugs to our streets.”
The latest operation comes amid continuing efforts by police across Northern Ireland to target suspected drug supply networks and criminal activity linked to organised gangs.
Public urged to report information
Police are continuing enquiries and have urged anyone with information about drug-related activity to come forward.
Members of the public can contact police on 101 or submit information online through the PSNI non-emergency reporting form at:
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at:
The investigation remains ongoing and further arrests or forensic developments may follow as officers examine the items seized during Thursday’s searches.