DETECTIVES from the PSNI’s Organised Crime Unit have welcomed the sentencing of three people today, Wednesday, June 26, for drugs and £65,000 ‘dirty’ moneylaundering related offences.

Paul Joseph Currie, 56, from Cookstown was today sentenced Dungannon Crown Court today to six years, three in custody and three on statutory supervision after pleading guilty to conspiracy to supply a class A controlled drug and conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug.

Stephen Eugene Currie, 32, also from Cookstown was sentenced to three years four months –  20 months which is to be spent in custody and 20 months statutory supervision after.

He pleaded guilty to possession of a class A controlled drug, possession of a class A controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of a class B controlled drug, possession of a class B controlled drug with intent to supply and encouraging or assisting an offence believing it will be committed.

Daren Loughlin, 42, from Kesh, Co Armagh was sentenced to two years, 12 months in custody and 12 months statutory supervision after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply a class A controlled drug and conspiracy to supply a class B controlled drug.

Detective Inspector  Keith Gawley from PSNI’s Organised Crime Unit said: “I welcome today’s sentencing following the seizure of a large quantity of drugs including cannabis resin, herbal cannabis, cocaine and benzocaine, and approximately £65,000 in cash.

“These arrests and successful convictions are the result of a long protracted complicated operation by officers from PSNI’s Organised Crime Unit.”

DI Gawley added: “The local drug trade destroys lives and brings devastation not only to those who take drugs but also their families and friends.

“Drug dealers don’t care about their communities, they use violence and intimidation to maintain their control.

“The only people who gain from drugs are the people who peddle them.

“They don’t care if the drugs are mixed with other unknown chemicals, or how it affects those who are addicted.

“All they are interested in is making money.

“We will continue to investigate those who profit from the harm caused by illegal drugs.

“I would appeal to the public to contact police if they have any concerns or information regarding drugs in their area by calling 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.”