PSNI seize sawn-off shotgun, Class A Drugs and arrest man in UDA Probe

Items seized by the PSNI the Paramilitary Crime Task Force

A 22-year-old man has been arrested following a series of property searches in north and south Belfast conducted by detectives from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force on Tuesday, 17th June.

Supported by Tactical Support Group officers, the searches were part of a wider ongoing investigation into suspected criminality associated with the West Belfast Ulster Defence Association (UDA).

During a search of a residential address in the Joanmount Gardens area of the city, officers uncovered a sawn-off shotgun, ammunition, a significant quantity of suspected class A drugs, and a quantity of fireworks.

Further items were seized at a separate property in Dromara Street, where the suspect was detained.

Providing an update on the operation, Detective Inspector Maguire said:

“Our search of a residential property in the Joanmount Gardens area of the city uncovered a sawn-off shotgun, ammunition, a significant quantity of suspected class A drugs and fireworks; while further items were seized at a house in the Dromara Street area, where the man was arrested.

“He remains in custody at this time, on suspicion of a number of offences including possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances, possession of ammunition in suspicious circumstances and possession of a class A controlled drug with intent to supply.

“Our enquiries are continuing. These searches demonstrate our commitment to addressing the misery caused by paramilitary criminality within our communities.

“We would like to thank the public for their continued support and will continue to act on the information you provide us.”

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is urging members of the public to report any information they may have regarding suspected paramilitary activity.

“I would encourage anyone with information about suspected paramilitary activity in their area to contact police on 101,” Detective Inspector Maguire added.

Reports can also be submitted online via the non-emergency reporting form at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.