DETECTIVES from the PSNI’s Reactive and Organised Crime Branch have arrested a 47-year-old male in connection with the discovery of a number of cannabis factories in 2014 when cannabis and herbal cannabis with a total estimated street value of more than £1.6 million was recovered.

The 47-year-old was detained in London last night, Tuesday 17th November, and has been returned to Northern Ireland for questioning at the PACE custody suite in Musgrave PSNI Station in Belfast.

He was arrested on suspicion of a number of drug related offences including cultivating cannabis, possession of a Class B drug and possession of a Class B drug with intent to supply.

Detective Inspector Keith Gawley explained: “The arrest follows the discovery of suspected cannabis factories in the Haypark Avenue area of Belfast and the Rugby Avenue area of Belfast on 19th March, 2014.

“Suspected herbal cannabis with an estimated street value of £500,000 and other drugs paraphernalia was recovered from the Rugby Avenue area property and suspected herbal cannabis with an estimated street value of £400,000 was seized at a property in the Haypark Avenue.

“The 47-year-old, has also been arrested in connection with the discovery of a cannabis factory in the Church Street area of Portadown on 15th October, 2014, during which cannabis with an estimated street value of more than £750,000 was seized.

“He is currently helping police with their enquiries.”

Two men aged 21 and 36, have already been charged in connection to the discovery of the cannabis factory in the Church Street area of Portadown.

Both men appeared at Craigavon Magistrates Court on October 17, 2014.