DETECTIVES from the PSNI’s Organised Crime Unit have arrested two people in Banbridge today, Tuesday 19 March, as part of an ongoing investigation into organised crime.

Detective Inspector Barry Hamilton said: “These arrests are part of an ongoing proactive investigation into an Organised Crime Gang.

“Officers have conducted a number of searches in the Bessbrook and Newry areas since January 2019.

“A number of suspected firearms were also seized in the Lower Newtown Road area of Newry on Friday, March 15, as part of the investigation.

“A 29 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances and possession of ammunition in suspicious circumstances.

“A 48 year old female has been arrested on suspicion of possessing criminal property.

“The pair were arrested in the Bridgewater Retail Park area of the town this afternoon and remain in police custody at this time.

“Those who involve themselves in organised crime should be under no illusion as to our commitment and determination to identify, pursue and arrest anyone suspected of involvement in this criminality and see them convicted for their crimes.

“Police continue to work to keep people and communities safe and this includes taking dangerous firearms off our streets.”

As part of the probe, a 33 year old man has already been charged with a number of offences.

He faced Newry Magistrates’ Court yesterday, Monday, March 18, in relation to this incident.