Part of Operation Dealbreaker, the investigation focuses on criminals offering drugs for sale on messaging apps that have been identified from mobiles seized within the Greater Belfast area.
Within these private groups, a seller typically offers to supply all kinds of drugs, as well as counterfeit goods and currency. On a small number of occasions, even firearms have been offered.
We recognise that a large number of group members are not actively engaged in criminality. Some may be recipients of unwelcome messages, in which case our advice is simply to leave the group immediately.
And, unfortunately, some individuals may be suffering from addiction. We’ve therefore commenced the process of messaging, and signposting to support, those who wish to get help for drug misuse.
Those, however, who are offering illicit goods or who are engaged in criminal offences are being robustly investigated.
The Police Service works with a huge range of partners, including those represented on the Organised Crime Task Force, to tackle the supply and use of illicit drugs. It also recognises the significant public health issue and works with the Department of Health and Public Health Agency, along with a number of charities.
This investigation is just one part of ongoing and huge collective efforts to tackle the scourge of drugs.
Drugs can be distributed by individual dealers or by organised crime groups, thus feeding wider organised criminality. Whatever the source, we have seen the same devastating aftermath all too often. We’ve seen vulnerable lives ruined and lost, with families left to pick up the pieces.
Anyone who thinks they might have a problem with alcohol and/or drugs and would like to get help can visit www.drugsandalcoholni.info This website also includes details of services available for individuals affected by someone else’s drinking and/or drug misuse.
The Police Service is appealing to anyone with information on the supply of illegal drugs to contact officers on 101.
Alternatively, contact the charity Crimestoppers, with total anonymity, on freephone 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. There is no caller line display and no 1471 facility.