illegal items seized today by detectives from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force

DETECTIVES from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force believe they have hit a crime gang in the pocket in the run up to Hallowe’en.

They carried out planned searches at two commercial premises in the Shankill Road area of Belfast this morning, Friday, October 6. 

Detective Inspector White said: “The searches today are part of our ongoing operation to disrupt paramilitary activity.

“No arrests have been made at this time, however, thousands of pounds worth of suspected counterfeit goods and fireworks were seized.

“Our enquiries are ongoing and we will continue to focus our attention on those involved in organised criminality and its links to paramilitaries.”

“I would encourage anyone who has any information about criminal activity to contact police on 101. Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”