Nine arrested in heroin searches

Nine people were arrested and a number of addresses searched in the Portadown area this morning (Monday) as part of a heroin operation.

The initial suspects held were seven men, aged 52, 39, 36, 31, 30 and two aged 29 and a 22-year-old woman.

A police statement said they were arrested “as part of a pro-active policing operation against the supply of heroin in the Greater Portadown area”.

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Detective Inspector Keith Gawley said, “They have all been taken to Musgrave Police Station for questioning on suspicion of supplying a class A controlled drug, possession of a class A controlled drug and possessing a class A controlled drug with intent to supply and are currently in custody assisting police with their enquiries.”

Following this initial swoop, another man was also arrested later on Monday.

The arrests were made by detectives from the Reactive and Organised Crime Branch in Mahon Road.

DI Gawley added: “This operation is yet another example of our determination to reduce the availability of this killer drug and I appeal to anyone who has any concerns or information about illegal drugs to contact their local police on the non-emergency number 101.

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“Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon District Commander, Superintendent Davy Moore has praised the partnership work which led to the arrests.

He said, “Today’s operation is the culmination of a complex and protracted investigation into the supply of illegal drugs across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon area involving local officers, TSG and our colleagues from Reactive and Organised Crime Branch.

“Working together to address the supply of heroin we have conducted six searches and arrested eight people.

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“This operation illustrates our commitment to work with the community across this district to address the scourge of drugs and the havoc it wreaks. We will continue to play our part and would encourage anyone who has information about the supply and use of illegal drugs to contact us on 101.”

Later, on Monday afternoon, detectives arrested another man.

The 45-year-old has been held under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

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