POLICE IN NORTHERN IRELAND claim to have dismantled an entire organised crime group, after five people were sentenced for their roles in importing drugs to the North.

The five were sentenced at Belfast Crown Court this morning after admitting their roles in importing Class A and Class B drugs in 2010.

The investigations came after cocaine, speed and herbal cannabis worth an estimated £1.2 million – as well as £120,000 in cash – were found in searches across Northern Ireland and Preston.

The recovery of the drugs, in ‘Operation Tiffin’ in 2010, followed a year-long investigation with officers from various law enforcement agencies throughout the UK.

The speed was found in banana boxes, while herbal cannabis were discovered in packets of dried noodles.

Police believed the drugs originated from the Netherlands and were moved to County Down via England.

“We believe we have caught all the members of this organised crime group, ranging from the supplier in Holland and the principal operators Barry Kavanagh and Liam Young, through to the drivers and couriers,” said PSNI detective superintendent Philip Marshall.

“Drugs make money for criminals but they bring misery and tragedy to users and communities. I would ask that everyone in our community works with us to reduce the threat posed by drugs so that we can continue to apprehend those responsible and bring them before the courts.”