Drugs being offered for sale via social media messaging apps, police warn

By Jonathan McCambridge (PA)

Police have warned that criminals are offering drugs for sale via social media messaging apps following the seizure of mobile phones in the greater Belfast area.

An officer said illegal drugs are often listed on the apps in menu-style formats, including prices and an explanation of how to purchase.

As part of Operation Dealbreaker, detectives have identified over 50 mobile numbers, conducted 18 related search operations and arrested 14 people.

Detective Superintendent Emma Neill said: “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.

“The drugs are often listed in menu-style formats: with the list of drugs available, the respective breakdown of prices per quantity, and an explanation of how to purchase.”

The officer added: “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.

“Detectives from our Organised Crime Branch have identified over 50 mobile numbers of those engaged in the most serious criminal, drug-related activity.

“Since May of this year, we have conducted 18 related search operations and arrested 14 people.

“Nine of those arrested have been charged to court, with the remainder released on investigative bail.

“During the searches, quantities of Class A, B and C controlled drugs, along with cash and high value assets have been seized.”

Ms Neill said the operation was just one part of the PSNI’s efforts to tackle the drugs problem in Northern Ireland.

She said: “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.”

She added: “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.