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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Conor Coyle

Five arrested in Co Tyrone cannabis farm raid

Five men have been arrested following the discovery of a cannabis farm near Cookstown on Friday.

Police were initially called to an address in the Tulnacross Road in Kildress after receiving a report of an injury at a property.

Officers discovered a 'large and sophisticated' cannabis farm on arrival at the property, as well as a firearm and ammunition.

READ MORE: Peter Donnelly: Family’s tribute to 'thoughtful and caring' Co Tyrone student after sudden death

Footage shared on social media on Friday showed a police helicopter flying above a field in the area, as police confirmed they detained one of the suspects during a pursuit on foot.

The five men arrested are aged 28, 36, 50 and two aged 29 and have been arrested on suspicion of a number of offences.

"Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Criminal Investigation Department, assisted by colleagues in the Specialist Operations Branch Air Support Unit and Neighbourhood policing teams, have arrested five men following the discovery of a cannabis farm in Cookstown," a PSNI statement said.

The suspected cannabis farm discovered near Cookstown on Friday (PSNI)



Detective Inspector Ryan said: “Police received a report that a man had been injured at a property in the Tulnacross Road area on Thursday, 2nd March.

“On arrival, officers uncovered a large and sophisticated cannabis farm. Further searches at the property also located a suspected firearm and a quantity of ammunition.

“These items have been seized for forensic examination, along with a large quantity of suspected cannabis.

“Colleagues from our Specialist Operations Branch Air Support Unit assisted officers on the ground by landing the helicopter in a nearby field, and making a pursuit on foot detaining one of the suspects.

“The men, aged 28, 36, 50 and two aged 29, have been arrested on suspicion of a number of offences and remain in custody at this time, assisting with enquiries.

“We are committed to tackling the illegal drugs trade and the criminals whose only concern is how they make a profit.

“I would urge anyone who has any information about drugs or drug-dealing in their community to call us so we can take action. That call could make all the difference."

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