Police made a substantial seizure of suspected Class A and Class B drugs following a series of planned searches across the Causeway Coast and Glens area on Thursday, 16 July.
Searches across Portrush and Portstewart
Officers carried out searches at eight addresses in Portrush and Portstewart as part of an investigation into the supply of illegal drugs in the local area. The operation resulted in the recovery of suspected Class A and Class B substances, a large number of suspected Class B edibles, drugs‑related paraphernalia and a quantity of cash.
“This was extremely good work from those involved and demonstrates our commitment to tackling the harm caused by illegal drug use and supply in our communities.”
The comment was made by Superintendent Yvonne McManus, who confirmed that the seized items have been removed for further forensic examination.
Arrests and court appearance
Two men were arrested during the operation. A 28‑year‑old was taken into custody on suspicion of multiple offences including possession of Class A and Class B controlled drugs, possession of both classes with intent to supply, being concerned in the supply or offer to supply controlled drugs and possessing criminal property. He has since been charged and was due to appear before Coleraine Magistrates' Court on Friday, 17 July. As normal practice, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
A 40‑year‑old man was also arrested on suspicion of offences relating to Class B drugs and possessing criminal property; he has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Local policing resources involved
The searches were carried out by the Causeway Coast and Glens District Support Team (DST), supported by the Causeway Coast and Glens Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), Tactical Support Group (TSG), North Area DST and the Police Dog Unit.
- Locations searched: eight addresses across Portrush and Portstewart
- Estimated street value seized: more than £50,000
- Persons arrested: two (aged 28 and 40)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Suspected drugs | Class A and Class B; large number of Class B edibles |
| Cash and paraphernalia | Seized for forensic examination |
| Police units involved | DST, NPT, TSG, North Area DST, Dog Unit |
Superintendent McManus urged anyone with information about the supply or use of illegal drugs to contact police via the non‑emergency number. The investigation remains ongoing as officers continue forensic analysis and follow‑up enquiries in the district.
The operation will be of interest to residents concerned about drug supply and related harm in the Causeway Coast and Glens area, and demonstrates a multi‑unit policing response to local drug investigations.
