POLICE SEIZE DRUGS AFTER PUBLIC STORM

POLICE have revealed that they made drugs seizures in a Co Antrim town
which was at the centre of controversy two weeks ago when 'concerned
residents' staged their own raids on the homes of alleged dealers.

The PSNI said a small number of cannabis plants and small quantities of
cannabis resin were found during searches of a number of premises in
Ballycastle and nearby Ballin-toy on Friday afternoon. There were no
arrests and inquiries are continuing.

Inspector Tom Crawford said: "The searches carried out on Friday were in
direct response to concerns that were raised by local residents, and it
shows the benefits of having a close police, public partnership.

"I would urge anyone who has any information regarding the use, sale or
supply of illegal drugs in the Moyle District to contact us so that the
matter can be fully investigated, and to ensure that important evidence is
not lost."

Anyone who has any information regarding the drugs trade is asked to
contact the police on Ballycastle 028 2076 2312, or 'Crimestoppers' on
freephone 0800 555 111.

On the night of February 2, a number of people raided at least one garden
shed in Ballycastle.

Later, cannabis plants were destroyed by having oil poured over them.