Police seize suspected drugs, weapons and mobile phones in Ballymena and Antrim

Police officers carried out a major operation in Ballymena on Monday morning as part of an ongoing investigation into the suspected supply of illegal drugs.

Multiple police units were deployed to the Orkney Drive area of the Ballykeel 2 estate, where residents reported seeing several unmarked police cars and vans arriving in the area.

The activity formed part of a wider operation spanning both Ballymena and Antrim and focused on suspected involvement in the supply of Class A and Class B controlled drugs.

Searches continue for hours in Ballykeel estate

Witnesses said officers carried out searches at at least two properties within the Ballykeel estate.

Police remained at the addresses for a number of hours on Monday morning, July 6, while searches and enquiries were ongoing.

The visible police presence drew attention from local residents, with officers and vehicles remaining in the area throughout much of the morning.

The operation is understood to have been planned in advance as part of a wider investigation being led by detectives.

Drugs, weapons and phones seized

In a statement issued following the searches, the Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed officers had seized a number of items during the operation.

A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said:

“Police conducted a number of planned searches in the Ballymena and Antrim areas today, Monday, 6th July, as part of an ongoing investigation into the supply of Class A and Class B drugs.

“As a result of the searches, a number of mobile phones were seized, along with a quantity of suspected Class B and Class C controlled drugs and a number of weapons.

“Enquiries remain ongoing.”

Continuing efforts to tackle drug crime

Drug-related crime remains a significant concern for many communities across Northern Ireland, with police regularly carrying out intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting organised criminal activity and removing illegal substances from circulation.

Monday’s operation highlights the continued focus by detectives on tackling the supply of drugs in local communities and investigating those suspected of involvement in the trade.

No arrests had been announced by police at the time of publication and enquiries remain ongoing.