Drugs, firearms, counterfeit goods and currency among items for sale on social media apps - PSNI
Drugs, firearms, counterfeit goods and currency are among items identified for sale on social media messaging apps, according to the PSNI.
Police said the information was gathered following the seizure of mobiles in the Greater Belfast area.
Officers working on Operation Dealbreaker are investigating criminals offering drugs for sale on messaging apps which have been identified through the seized phones.
It understood that on the private messaging groups, drugs are often listed "in menu-style formats" including the list of drugs available, the breakdrown of prices per quantity and the explanation of how to purchase.
Det Supt 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.
“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.
”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.
Det Supt Neill continued: “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.”
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."
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