Police seize €10m drugs in Chinese gang swoop
Part of the €10.7m haul of cannabis which has been seized by police in Northern Ireland
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UP to 45 people have been arrested by detectives investigating a major cannabis processing operation.
High grade drugs with a street value of almost £8.5m (€10.7m) and believed to be destined for Britain were seized when police searched rented flats and houses throughout Northern Ireland.
The 45 people arrested are all from South East Asia and police said organised Chinese gangs had rented the properties to grow plants before selling the drugs throughout the UK.
Detective Inspector Peter Moore, who is heading the inquiry, said: "Crime gangs have turned their attention from mainland UK to Northern Ireland, presumably because they thought they wouldn't get caught. They were wrong.''
Since late last year, officers have recovered 14,500 cannabis plants worth £7.3m (€9.2m), as well as 113kg of herbal cannabis with an estimated value of £1.1m (€1.38m). About £120,000 (€151,000) in cash and a substantial amount of equipment used in the cultivation process were also recovered during searches of 55 properties. Police said there would be more searches.
Mr Moore added: "We believe the cannabis is being cultivated here for distribution and sale outside Northern Ireland.
"Organised crime gangs are exploiting people from South East Asia in the cultivation process.
Outraged
"Police believe those involved in this illegal activity are from outside Northern Ireland. The local Chinese community are outraged."
With the cultivation going on in accommodation with blacked-out windows and full of electric fans and heaters, police also warned of potential public safety risks.
Mr Moore said: "There is a significant threat of fire with cannabis factories. You have a great potential for serious injury, even death."
- Deric Henderson
