In a significant operation earlier this month, officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) uncovered a sophisticated cannabis factory in Co Armagh, seizing approximately 200 cannabis plants along with a substantial quantity of cash. This discovery occurred in the early hours of a Sunday morning in the Main Street area of Blackwatertown while police were investigating a separate incident involving a suspected impaired driver who had abandoned their vehicle.
As officers approached the residential property, they were drawn in by the disruptive noise of "extremely loud music." While addressing the noise complaint, police officers noted the unusual behaviour of the occupants, prompting them to request permission to enter the property. Upon entering, they were met with a strong odour of cannabis, which proved to be a significant warning sign.
Upon further searching the property, officers discovered not only the cannabis plants but also numerous vacuum-sealed bags containing cannabis buds and various drug-related paraphernalia. Notably, they found that the electricity meter had been tampered with, indicating potentially illegal usage of electrical resources to support the operation.
The police arrested two men, aged 43 and 54, on multiple charges, including cultivating cannabis, possession of a Class B controlled drug, and possession with intent to supply. The younger man was also charged with dishonestly using electricity. Both remain in custody as the investigations continue, with police emphasising the thoroughness of their operation, which has disrupted what appeared to be a well-organised scheme.
This incident is part of a growing trend in Co Armagh, where police recently made another substantial drug bust. Just days prior, officers in Markethill seized around 400 cannabis plants, worth an estimated £200,000, during a similarly executed raid. That operation involved local neighbourhood policing teams who acted on suspicions raised by the property's appearance. Two men, aged 32 and 34, were arrested on comparable charges related to drugs and theft of electricity.
Police Inspector Tate, involved in the Markethill operation, noted that these discoveries reflect the ongoing commitment of law enforcement to combat drug production and distribution in local communities. The inspector highlighted the importance of community vigilance and encouraged public assistance in reporting suspicious activities.
Local residents and community leaders have expressed increasing concern over the rise of sophisticated drug operations in rural areas. This marks a shift in illicit drug cultivation, which has traditionally been more concentrated in urban settings. Neighbourhood policing teams have been actively engaging with the community to raise awareness about these issues, with hopes that a united front can help mitigate the rise of drug-related crime.
As the PSNI continues to investigate these incidents, they invite anyone with information that could assist their efforts to come forward. With repeated discoveries of well-organised cannabis factories, the message from authorities is clear: a vigilant and responsive community is essential in the fight against drug crime.
Reference Map
- Lead article on cannabis factory in Co Armagh
- Related discovery of a cannabis factory in Markethill
- Context and details about the Markethill operation
- Further confirmation about the scale of the Markethill operation
- Insight into law enforcement's response and community implications
- Increased community concerns regarding drug operations
- Ongoing police invitation for public assistance in investigations
Source: Noah Wire Services