POLICE say a major drugs bust in Co Down is linked to the UDA.

The Paramilitary Crime Task Force swooped on a business premises in Newtownards on Monday seizing a large quantity of illegal drugs.

Cannabis, cocaine and a mixing agent were all discovered with police estimating a potential street value of £100,000.

One man aged in his 40s was arrested on drugs offences and later released on police bail pending further investigation.

Detective Inspector Lynne Knox said they believe the drugs are linked to the South East Antrim UDA.

“The harm caused by drug misuse impacts on people’s lives at every level in Northern Ireland,” she said.

“It includes crime committed to fuel drug dependence; organised criminality, the violence and exploitation that goes hand in hand with production and supply; paramilitary style attacks and the irreparable damage and loss to the families and individuals whose lives it destroys.

“This seizure demonstrates our ongoing commitment to removing drugs from our communities and the harm they cause.

“We are committed to tackling the issue of drugs and I would appeal to the public to speak to us if they have any concerns or information regarding drugs in their communities.

“I would ask anyone who is aware of any individual involved in the supply of drugs to contact their local police on 101.

“Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”

The PSNI, HM Revenue & Customs and the National Crime Agency established the Paramilitary Crime Task Force to tackle criminality linked to paramilitarism as part of the Executive’s action plan on tackling paramilitary activity, criminality and organised crime.