Cannabis factory raided in Newtownbutler

42 adult plants and equipment used to cultivate cannabis were seized by PSNI officers

A cannabis factory has been uncovered in neighbouring Co Fermanagh.

Police in Newtownbutler discovered the operation yesterday evening (Monday, May 10) when officers conducted a search of a property in the area.

They seized 42 adult plants and equipment used to cultivate cannabis.

A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of the cultivation of cannabis and possession of a Class B drug with intent to supply.

He is currently in custody assisting officers with their enquiries.

Inspector Darryl Johnston described the seizure as a “significant discovery” by officers working to “keep the community safe”.

The investigation is “ongoing”.

It is the second major seizure by PSNI in the Fermanagh-Omagh district after Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Organised Crime Unit seized suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of approximately £500,000.

Two searches were conducted yesterday within the Tyrone area resulting in police arresting two men aged 35 and 25 on suspicion of a number of drugs-related offences.

They are currently in police custody where they are being questioned by detectives.

Detective Inspector Shaw said: “The arrests and seizure were the result of searches carried out today in the Fintona area. Drugs cause significant harm. Not only do they pose a risk to the lives of people who take them but also to their families who deal with the distressing fall out associated with drugs, including debt and intimidation. People who bring these drugs into our communities do not care about this pain and misery, instead they only care about the significant profits they can make. We will continue to disrupt those involved in drugs related criminality and remove drugs and other harmful substances from our communities."