Detectives have carried out searches and made three arrests earlier today, Thursday, December 12.
The searches took place in south Armagh and England, and are part of an investigation into the discovery of firearms in Crossmaglen in October 2023.
Two men, aged 32 and 59, were arrested in the south Armagh area, while a third man, aged 69, was arrested in Grantham in Lincolnshire. All were arrested on suspicion of firearms offences, and all remain in custody at this time.
The PSNI’s District Commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, Superintendent Norman Haslett, said: “The arrests follow from a proactive search operation in the Monog Road area of Crossmaglen in October 2023. Here, weapons and ammunition were discovered in a constructed hide, which was buried in a hedgerow on agricultural land.
“This in itself was a significant seizure, and today’s arrests are further assurance of our ongoing commitment to keep communities safe. We continue to work tirelessly with our partners and, in this case, I’m keen to acknowledge support from HMRC and Lincolnshire Police, as well as the collective efforts of our policing teams including Organised Crime Branch, TSG and our own local district team.
“I’m confident that this policing operation has disrupted the activities of criminals within the south Armagh area, and the public should be reassured that we will continue in our efforts to dismantle criminality.”
Superintendent Haslett continued: “We also, however, rely upon the support of the public, and I’m keen to take the opportunity to appeal to anyone with information on suspected illegal activity, or concerns, to contact us on 101.”
A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport
Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
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